Journal: Still I Rise

Journal: Still I Rise

1. What is your response to the poem and your understanding of what issue(s) the poem is addressing?

My understanding of this poem is that this poem is an emotive poem written by an African-American poet to address the history of white oppression of black people. Angelou is speaking out to the centuries of mistreatment and oppression that black people have endured and will continue to endure. It can also be seen as a signature piece to encourage all who care not to give up despite being suppressed by the others.

2. Comment on the marginal notes and whether or not you agree with or have questions about what the person has written.

I agree with what the person has written in the marginal notes, the notes point out the specific literary devices such as rhyme, simile, and allusions in the poem. The marginal notes also ask the question about who Angelou is referring to as “you” in the poem. I believe she is referring to the oppressors of African-Americans from the time of slavery and on to the present. She is also speaking of an irrepressible pride and sense of ‘self’ that keeps the oppressed from giving up or giving in to the circumstances of a lengthy and on-going inequality with unspeakable indignities and tragedies. I think she is also addressing black youth, especially so that they will know that their legacy is one filled with pride and hope as much as the story of slavery and segregation and the scourge of racism.  

3. Note any additional marginal notes you would have added about other aspects of the poem.

I would have added the marginal note that explains “oil wells, gold mine” from the poem is a metaphor, as Angelou is referring those valuable items to herself; but, I think it is about the hidden reserves of strength that exist and can be drawn on by those who have suffered white oppression. There is something deep down and rich that the racists and bigots can never touch; they can never drain the resources of those who are truly in touch with their roots and their own worth and value. Like oil and gold, the spirit of the black man and woman is a rich and precious quantity that cannot be taken from them; but that they hold in reserve and can rise up to the surface at any time when needed.

4. Write down 2 similes, 2 allusions, and 2 motifs you find in the poem.

The two similes are “Just like moons and like suns” (line 9) and “Shoulders falling down like teardrops” (line 15). Two allusions are “Out of huts of history’s shame I rise up from the past that’s rooted in past I rise.” (line 25-28) and “Leaving behind nights of terror and fear.” Two motifs are the repetition of words “I rise” and “I will rise” and the other is a simile.