Nikki Giovanni: The Princess of Black Poetry

1690 Words4 Pages

In the twentieth-century, when Contemporary Literature was emerging from 1960 to present time, it was seen as a product of the post-Second World War situation. Yolande Cornelia “Nikki” Giovanni was born in Knoxville, Tennessee and raised in Lincoln Heights, an all-black suburb in Cincinnati. Giovanni is one of the most commonly read American poets; her frankness in her writing has brought her a lot of recognition and prominence. Giovanni became the voice of many African Americans, her contribution to the literary period reflects the struggle for equality, and the power one has to make a difference in oneself and in other’s life. Her writings reflect contemporary events and experiences in her own life, as well as in the larger African American community. At times, she can be rather controversial but becomes a respected speaker and reader and has upheld a prominent place as a strong voice of the Black society. Contemporary literature is a modern form of writing, which was born out of the devastations of World War II, characterized by unique features such as linguistic and stylistic characteristics, and thematic features. It is the product of the post-Second World War situation. It was a moment in time when “cynicism, frustration and disillusionment crept into the lives and minds of mankind after witnessing the damages caused by the War” ("Contemporary”). People were pessimistic, bitter and could not appreciate the glorious history, which marked the beginning of the romantic and metaphysical works. Some of the linguistic and stylistic characteristics consisted of free verse, juxtaposition, or combination of ideas and themes and a broad use of classical allusions. Contemporary poet, Nikki Giovanni, is famous for writing in free vers... ... middle of paper ... ...ry of The World...The Definitive Guide to Love Poems. Web. 8 Apr. 2011. "Contemporary Literature , Books on Literature." World Map, Map of the World. 2000. Web. 8 Apr. 2011. Fowler, Virginia C. "Nikki Giovanni: Bio: Timeline." Yolanda Cornelia "Nikki" Giovanni: Poet, Virginia Tech University Professor. 2003. Web. 8 Apr. 2011. Jones, Dianne Rosena. "Nikki Giovanni—Revolutionary Poet - African American Lit." BellaOnline -- The Voice of Women. 2011. Web. 8 Apr. 2011. Mary. "Nikki-Rosa (293) Analysis." AP Lit. 30 Mar. 2008. Web. 8 Apr. 2011. Neal, Mark Anthony. "God Parent of Hip Hop Nikki Giovanni." Chickenbones. 8 June 2010. Web. 8 Apr. 2011. "Nikki Giovanni Criticism (Vol. 117)." ENotes - Literature Study Guides, Lesson Plans, and More. 2011. Web. 8 Apr. 2011. Parks, Tilia. "A Moment With Nikki Giovanni - Campus Life." Spokesman. 9 Nov. 2001. Web. 8 Apr. 2011.

More about Nikki Giovanni: The Princess of Black Poetry

Open Document