“Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning” -Maya Angelou
Everyone has read a Maya Angelou poem or book before. She has been a pivotal part of shaping literature and poetry as we know it. Her writing had deep and philosophical meanings and her words stick to the mind years after being heard because they’re so relatable.
The message I believe she is trying to convey to the wide audience is that words may be written down but the interpretation is what makes the words come to the life and have true meaning. This can be said to anyone because as a part of learning, we’ve all had to read, write and think analytically about our works as well as others. The message we want conveyed has to be written but there is also room for interpretation.
Maya Angelou was a renowned writer and until her death she was a part of the literary community by serving on two presidential committees and receiving over 50 honorary degrees. This quote was taken from, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” a print publication in 1969, as an autobiography from the ages of three to sixteen. It’s a coming-of-age story and the context of the quote comes from Marguerite (now known as Maya) not speaking up in class. The talk with Mrs. Flowers changes the girl and she says it’s “valid and poetic”. During the time period, she faces having little confidence and find the motivation to be a successful woman, while also dealing with racism in Stamps, Arkansas.
This quotes resonates with me because she is being told to speak up for herself, something my grandmother and other elders have been saying since I could remember. This quote also makes me think about the interpretations others get from my writing.
The message we want conveyed has to be written but there is also room for interpretation. I chose this quote because I love Maya Angelou, but also because this reminds me of what family members I hold near and dear to my heart always say.This quote will influence the way I read. I’ll look into the context and analyze what the reader is saying but what’s hidden underneath when read aloud.
This quote brings me to question what the words mean as they’re set on paper. How is it that the meaning automatically shifts when written? Or is Angelou saying the reader has control of the context after it is written. This will inspire me to think carefully about what’s put on paper and the reactions people may have to the words.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/aug/18/maya-angelou-caged-bird-review