Poem-a-Day: "Phenomenal Woman"

A poem selected by Kelsey Quist, English 348:

"Phenomenal Woman," by Maya Angelou.

Read, watch Maya Angelou recite an excerpt from "Phenomenal Woman," or listen to Ruthie Foster's musical rendition of "Phenomenal Woman":


As one of America’s most celebrated poets, Maya Angelou writes with grace and ease that makes her poems moving and memorable. “Phenomenal Woman” is a beautiful, joyous poem that celebrates women everywhere. It is about the quiet strength and power that women can have with confidence in their bodies. Angelou sends the message of a positive body image to readers, by acknowledging different body types and showing how every single one is beautiful. This powerful poem shows that Angelou is indeed a “phenomenal woman”, whose poetry will last for years to come.
~Kelsey Quist, UW-Eau Claire student, English 348

April is National Poetry Month! UW-Eau Claire students in English 348 (Topics in American Literature) are celebrating National Poetry Month with the McIntyre Library.

Featured poems will be listed here in the order they appear on the blog.

UW-Eau Claire's celebration of National Poetry Month is on Facebook and Twitter!

Questions or comments? Robin Miller will try to help.