By using a very close reading (at the word and punctuation level), you will discuss, for instance, how two separate poems represent a particular political ideology, an individual's struggle with group identity, a specific conflict, etc. Any shared idea.

You will do one of the following --
discuss how two poems from the same author achieve a thematically similar message
discuss how two poems from two different authors achieve a thematically similar message
discuss how two poems from the same author achieve a thematically different messages
discuss how two poems from two different authors achieve a thematically different messages
In other words: you will discuss how one/two authors represent the same idea/subject matter (they either do it the same way or in different ways).
You need to present an arguable thesis or theses supporting one possible interpretation among others. You have a lot of options here, but there are several things you should keep in mind:
You will want to consider the rhetorical situation of the text--information about the subject, the creator, the target audience, the literary movement, the poetic form, etc. will give a better understanding about why the text represents things as it does.
The focus of the essay will be on your own interpretation. You will support your interpretation with a close reading of the text but you will not use outside sources.
It is a good idea to select your focus first, and then re-view the text through your interpretive lens. You'll probably find a lot of evidence that you missed the first time around.
Be mindful of representations that support or attack common stereotypes; role reversals; archetypal figures; group-oriented character development; generic conventions; symbolism, etc.
No matter which texts you choose or what elements you choose to focus on, you'll want to come to some conclusion(s) about the text’s representations and how they affect its underlying message. How does the text reflect the assumptions, conflicts, values, desires, and/or fears of the wider culture? (This is the part of the paper that carries the most weight over several criteria.)
What matters is that you say what you need to say and say it well.
Use your own voice and write a paper that you would want to read.
Be sure to review "Quoting PoetryLinks to an external site." and format your citations correctly.

1 answer

Unpacking Identity: A Close Reading of "Still I Rise" and "Woman" by Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou’s poetry often delves into themes of empowerment, resilience, and identity, particularly concerning the experiences of African American women. In "Still I Rise" and "Woman," Angelou approaches the theme of womanhood and resilience through different lenses. While both poems celebrate the strength of women, they diverge in how they articulate the struggles and triumphs faced by women in a patriarchal society. This essay argues that Angelou employs distinct rhetorical strategies in these poems to convey a similar message of empowerment, illustrating the complexities of female identity in the face of societal oppression.

In "Still I Rise," Angelou asserts an unwavering spirit against oppression. From the very beginning, the rhythm of the poem conveys a feeling of strength and resolve. The repeated refrain "I rise" acts as both a declaration and a mantra, reinforcing her determination. The use of enjambment, particularly in lines like “But still, like dust, I’ll rise,” creates a sense of momentum, suggesting an unstoppable force. The metaphor of rising likens her resilience to natural phenomena, which emphasizes not only her personal strength but also a universal, inevitable force of renewal and rebirth.

Conversely, "Woman," while also celebrating female strength, takes a more nuanced approach. The poem opens with a reflection on the multifaceted identities of women, highlighting the contradictions and struggles inherent in womanhood through the lines, “I am a woman / Phenomenally.” This proclamation asserts the complexity of womanhood, indicating a deeper exploration of identity beyond mere resilience. The word “phenomenally” suggests that being a woman encapsulates a unique and profound experience that defies reduction to mere stereotypes. Angelou's use of the term reflects a broader cultural commentary on the power and diversity of women's experiences, moving beyond the simplistic narrative of struggle.

Moreover, Angelou employs contrasting imagery in both poems to underscore their differing focuses. In "Still I Rise," the imagery is bold and triumphant. She's likened to "sugar," "oil wells / Pumping in my living room," and "the sun," all connoting abundance and positivity. Each image builds upon her claim of resilience not just as a personal triumph, but as an assertion of worth in a world that often devalues women, particularly women of color. In sharp contrast, "Woman" employs a more introspective and complex set of images. It reflects on the vulnerability and contradictions within womanhood, such as strength intertwined with fragility. Angelou writes, “I am a seed / Buried in the ground,” which evokes notions of potential and the painful process of growth that women endure.

While both poems share the theme of empowerment, they ultimately convey different aspects of female identity. "Still I Rise" celebrates the triumph over oppression in a straightforward and forceful manner, evoking a sense of collective empowerment. On the other hand, "Woman" emphasizes the individuality and complexity of female experience, inviting readers to reflect on the layered identities women navigate. This exploration begs the reader to confront not only the strengths of women but also the inherent struggles within their identities.

In conclusion, Maya Angelou's "Still I Rise" and "Woman" present a powerful commentary on female identity and resilience. Through their differing rhetorical strategies, Angelou effectively illustrates the complexity of womanhood by blending personal and collective narratives. The former champions a bold declaration of strength, while the latter invites a deeper exploration of the multifaceted nature of women's experiences—both honoring the struggles and celebrating the power that lies within. Ultimately, Angelou’s work reflects the cultural assumptions, desires, and fears surrounding womanhood, serving to elevate the narrative of women in a patriarchal society and recognize their resilience in the face of adversity.