Maya Angelou was born Marguerite Ann Johnson on April 4, 1928. She is one of my favorite authors. Recently, paying homage to Black History Month, I read her autobiography. In 1938 Maya was raped by her mother’s boyfriend. The rapist was killed by Maya’s uncle. Shortly after Maya became mute and for five years barely spoke a word. She credited a schoolteacher for helping her to rediscover her voice and encourage her interest in literature. Today Maya Angelou is one of the most renowned African-American authors of the twentieth century. Today I pay homage to Maya Angelou. As a tribute to Black History Month and Maya Angelou, the following poem contains twelve titles from Maya Angelou’s outstanding array of literature.

Out of silence came some of the most beautiful words ever written.

Like dust, she swore and still I rise

From traumatic experiences

Others can barely surmise

Her words are like a rage

Exploding off every page

She stated firmly, I shall not be moved

A phenomenal woman, accepted and approved

She implores us to gather together in my name

We should exalt and aspire as a result of her fame

Now I know why the cage bird sings

Out of silence came all manner of goodly things

She has the heart of a woman, all encompassing and strong

She knows that all God’s children need travelling shoes to get along

She flung a song up to heaven and even the angels knew

She sent a letter to her daughter, tried but true

On the pulse of morning she rose with more than mouth and tooth

To share with us a brave and startling truth

Singing and swinging and getting merry like Christmas, she danced

Out of silence she boldly pranced

Even the stars look lonesome, when we stop to question why

All Maya ever asked was, Just give me a cool drink of water fore I die