"Still I Rise" by Maya Angelou is a powerful and inspiring poem that expresses the poet's resilience in the face of oppression. The poem's use of language features such as repetition, metaphors, and imagery helps to convey the poet's views on oppression and her determination to rise above it.
The poet's feelings towards slavery are evident in lines such as "I am a black ocean, leaping and wide" and "I am the dream and the hope of the slave." These lines use metaphors to express the enormity of the African-American struggle, as well as the resilience and strength of those who have come before.
Throughout the poem, Angelou also touches on the treatment of African-American people throughout history. Lines such as "I am the Negro bearing slavery's scars" and "I am the soul that never dies" emphasize the impact of slavery on the African-American community and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
The poem's overall message is one of hope and determination. Angelou encourages readers to rise above their oppressors and to refuse to be defeated by the obstacles they face. Her repetition of the phrase "I rise" throughout the poem serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the ability to overcome even the greatest challenges.
In conclusion, Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise" uses language features such as metaphors, repetition, and imagery to express the poet's views on oppression and her determination to rise above it. The poem is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a call to action for all those who face adversity.