Nikki Giovanni
Nikki Giovanni
Yolande Cornelia "Nikki" Giovanni, Jr.is an American poet, writer, commentator, activist, and educator. One of the world's most well-known African-American poets, her work includes poetry anthologies, poetry recordings, and nonfiction essays, and covers topics ranging from race and social issues to children's literature. She has won numerous awards, including the Langston Hughes Medal, the NAACP Image Award, and has been nominated for a Grammy Award, for her Nikki Giovanni Poetry Collection. Additionally, she has recently been named as one of...
NationalityAmerican
ProfessionPoet
Date of Birth7 June 1943
CityKnoxville, TN
CountryUnited States of America
In the name of peace They waged the wars ain't they got no shame
I'm glad I understand that while language is a gift, listening is a responsibility. (U.S. poet and writer, 1943- )
I grow old though pleased with my memories The tasks I can no longer complete Are balanced by the love of the tasks gone past I offer no apology only this plea: When I am frayed and strained and drizzle at the end Please someone cut a square and put me in a quilt That I might keep some child warm And some old person with no one else to talk to Will hear my whispers And cuddle near
We are better than we think and not yet what we want to be.
i hope i die warmed by the life that i tried to live
If everybody became a poet the world would be much better. We would all read to each other.
VISIBILITY - You've got to find a way to make people know you're there
We are less lonely when we connect. Art is connection.
The trip to Mars can only be understood through Black Americans. I say, the trip to Mars can only be understood through Black Americans.
I always like summer best
Black love is Black wealth and they'll probably talk about my hard childhood and never understand that all the while I was quite happy
The catchword I use with my classes is: The authority of the writer always overcomes the skepticism of the reader.
A lot of people refuse to do things...
Once you know who you are, you don't have to worry anymore.