Equality By Maya Angelou (Analysis)

Poem and Image link: https://genius.com/Maya-angelou-equality-annotated

https://images.hive.blog/DQmcKkNpc4EHAtJ9GzDxAeF7U9YxTjyoUJtNZuMDVkgMLHH/image.png

1. How does Maya use imagery to represent ideas and themes?

The author, Maya Angelou, uses vivid imagery to convey anti-racist ideas and themes. In the first stanza, from lines, 1-3 Maya describes African-Americans as outcasts of American society, "You declare you see me dimly...though I stand before you boldly"". These lines provide insight into the African-American struggle that Maya Angelou witnesses in real life that African-Americans are seen as inferior because no matter what they achieve, their efforts will be seen "dim" and dull in contrast to the Caucasians of America.

2. Why do poets and authors use figurative language (such as metaphors and similes) in their writing?

Figurative language is a strong tool that excels in persuasion. A sensitive issue such as racism can be argued with facts but the usage of metaphors and similes adds an emotional oomph and also helps convey a topic like racism in a casual but emotive manner. Additionally, the author has employed the usage of metaphors as she refers to herself as a "shadow", presumably because African-Americans are often overlooked in many areas of society like they don't exist - hence she feels like a shadow, and her experience is reflective of countless others like her who do not feel active members of society.