Maya Angelou, the eminent poet and civil rights activist, was powerfully affected by the people and experiences that shaped her life. Undoubtedly, there were several people who had a strong influence on her.
Angelou encountered many influential people who inspired her in childhood and adolescence. Her elders were strong female figures in her life, who inspired her to emulate them. Her grandmother told her fairy tales that encouraged her to be brave and courageous and her mother taught her to be generous. Angelou’s teachers at school displayed a passion for literature that inspired her to write. They shared the works of famous authors, such as W.E.B. Du Bois, and encouraged her to explore her own creativity.
Mahalia Jackson, an iconic gospel singer, was influential in Angelou’s life. Listening to Jackson’s music uplifted Angelou, and inspired her to explore music and songwriting. Langston Hughes and James Baldwin, two prominent African-American writers, were also inspirations for her writing. From Du Bois’s call for justice to Hughes’s use of language and Baldwin’s insights on race, Angelou found reflection and ground in their work.
When Angelou moved to California, she became close friends with writers like Alvin Ailey, James Baldwin, and Charlotte Rae. Each one supported and encouraged her to write and taught her invaluable lessons about writing, living, and believing in oneself. In Angelou’s own words,”I was blessed with the gift of wonderful friends who taught me an appreciation for life.”
Claudette Colvin, Rosa Parks, Medgar Evers, and other civil rights heroes were also strong influences on Angelou’s life. She had an admiration for these freedom fighters and their dedication to the civil rights movement was an inspiration to her. These people and their legacy taught Angelou to fight for justice and equality. Maya Angelou was forever able to draw strength, courage and inspiration from the wonderful people in her life.
European Influence
Angelou was also highly influenced by the European culture she encountered during her trip to Europe. She was taken with the beauty she found in the Italian countryside and its classical monuments and sculptures. She was especially enchanted by the intricate Gothic architecture, which filled her with a sense of awe and mystery. While in Geneva, Angelou was fascinated by both the French and Swiss cultures that she experienced. She was also deeply moved by the passionate political speeches of European leaders. Angelou drew great inspiration from Europe, which she used to fuel her writing.
Literary Influence
Angelou had a deep appreciation for literature. She was drawn to the works of famous authors, such as T.S. Eliot, Emily Dickinson and Walt Whitman. She was both inspired and educated by the writing of these authors, and they provided her with the opportunity to explore her own writing. Angelou was also inspired by African American writers and activists, such as James Baldwin and W.E.B. Du Bois. These writers and activists were a source of encouragement and comfort for her.
Religious Influence
Angelou was also strongly influenced by religion. She was raised in a Baptist Church and the hymns and prayers of the church were a source of comfort to her. Angelou appreciated the power of prayer and faith, and often gave credit to her faith for her accomplishments. Furthermore, Angelou was inspired by the Bible, which she read for its moral lessons, as well as its poetry and beauty. Angelou found great comfort and inspiration in her faith, which helped her get through some of the most difficult parts of her life.
Political Influence
Angelou was also deeply influenced by politics. She was a staunch supporter of civil rights, and was inspired by the efforts of political figures, such as Medgar Evers and Rosa Parks. Angelou was also inspired by the speeches of political leaders, such as Martin Luther King Jr., who encouraged her to fight for justice and equality. Angelou was never afraid to speak her mind and she often used her platform to advocate for civil rights.
