Final answer:
Men marvel at the mysterious qualities of a woman that make her appealing in Maya Angelou's "Phenomenal Woman"; the poem celebrates intrinsic qualities over physical appearance, and it discusses themes of judgement and self-worth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase "men themselves have wondered what they see in me" from Maya Angelou's poem "Phenomenal Woman" suggests that men are puzzled by their attraction to the speaker despite her not fitting stereotypical standards of beauty. It's a reflection on the intangible qualities that make a woman appealing, such as confidence and presence, beyond physical appearance.
Similarly, the inner mystery referenced in the poem could relate to the intrinsic qualities that are not immediately visible but contribute to a woman's allure. Pride is a deep sense of self-respect and worth. Bodily gestures and physical appearance can play a role in identity, but they do not fully define it. The poem challenges the idea that women's clothing should influence how they are judged, highlighting the problem of false judgement.
These themes resonate with historical and contemporary discussions on women's presentation, including critiques and celebrations of beauty, such as the celebration of black women's natural hair in the "Wrap Your beYOUty Movement" or Alice Walker's reflections on confidence and beauty.