The strongest of these poems is undoubtedly "Our Grandmothers."

Most of the poems flow off the tongue with an effortless elegance, which is so consistent throughout all of Angelou's works.

Despite the powerful style, in my view, the other three poems didn't possess as much depth and substance.

It's rated 3.5/5, rounded down because only one poem in the collection really stood out to me.

[2 to 3/5 would be ordinary or mediocre poetry, and this collection rises above that, albeit not by a great margin.]

Angelou's ability to create such a smooth and engaging reading experience is remarkable.

However, the lack of substance in some of the poems prevents it from achieving a higher rating.

Overall, it's a decent collection with one standout piece.

Phenomenal Woman

Pretty women often wonder about the secret that lies within me. I'm not cute in the traditional sense nor built to fit the size requirements of a fashion model. But when I begin to share with them, they assume I'm telling lies. I tell them that it's in the reach of my arms, the span of my hips, the stride of my step, and the curl of my lips. I'm a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that's me.

When I walk into a room, as cool as can be, to a man, the fellows either stand or fall down on their knees. Then they swarm around me like a hive of honey bees. I explain that it's the fire in my eyes, the flash of my teeth, the swing in my waist, and the joy in my feet. I'm a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that's me.

Even men themselves have wondered what it is they see in me. They try so hard, but they can't touch the inner mystery that is me. When I attempt to show them, they say they still can't see. I tell them it's in the arch of my back, the sun of my smile, the ride of my breasts, and the grace of my style. I'm a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that's me.

Now you understand just why my head's not bowed. I don't shout or jump about or have to talk real loud. When you see me passing, it ought to make you proud. I say it's in the click of my heels, the bend of my hair, the palm of my hand, and the need of my care, because I'm a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that's me.

Maya Angelou has crafted a truly remarkable song/poem. I have read several of her other poems online and have developed a strong desire to read this book. While googling can provide a wealth of information, there's simply nothing like settling down with the printed page in a comfy chair and immersing oneself in the beauty and power of her words.

It allows for a more intimate and profound connection with the author's thoughts and emotions.

I look forward to experiencing the full essence of "Phenomenal Woman" in its printed form and further exploring the literary genius of Maya Angelou.

I discovered that these poems are truly empowering when it comes to the feminism they present and highly enlightening when delving into the history of black women.

Maya Angelou's writing style is so personal that it not only makes the meaning of the poem even more impactful but also extremely relatable.

Her words seem to reach out and touch the hearts of readers, allowing them to understand and connect with the experiences and emotions of black women throughout history.

The poems serve as a powerful reminder of the struggles and triumphs of black women, and the importance of feminism in achieving equality and justice.

They also offer a unique perspective on the history of black women, one that is often overlooked or forgotten.

By reading and reflecting on these poems, we can gain a deeper understanding of the past and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Maya Angelou's lyrical and strong voice shone through these pages.

Her words had a power that could move mountains and touch the deepest recesses of the human heart. She was not just a writer; she was a force of nature.

She truly was the most phenomenal. Her works, especially the poems "Phenomenal woman" and "Still I rise", are testaments to her extraordinary talent and unwavering spirit.

P.S. For the poems "Phenomenal woman" and "Still I rise", I would suggest you to listen to Maya's readings on YouTube. They are so much better with her voice. Her intonations, the way she emphasized certain words, added a whole new dimension to the already beautiful poems. It was as if she was breathing life into them, making them come alive in a way that only she could.

Listening to her readings is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lives. It is a chance to be inspired by a truly remarkable woman and to领略 the beauty and power of her words.