What does this poem say to you? Does she have a specific audience that it is made for? Does it show the current state of culture in America? Is it making a commentary on America's past? Have you heard the sentiments expressed in this poem in other works? If so, what were they?
This poem conveys to me to remain a persistent and persevering young woman. I believe that her audience may be females, African American women to be more specific because she speaks as though she is talking on behalf of all women. However, being such a prominent author and writer for African Americans, I believe it may be for African American women. I do believe that she is commenting on America's past, to how black women were once treated and how women as slaves were constantly put down to stay in their places. She is conveying that no matter what their masters, men, or other people may say or do, continue to rise, whether it be mentally or emotionally. I have not heard these sentiments expressed in other works particularly, but there are always themes in many works about being a persistent person, no matter what is thrown towards you.
