Still I Rise
You may write me down in history
With your bitter, twisted lies,
You may trod me in the very dirt
But still, like dust, I'll rise.
Does my sassiness upset you?
Why are you beset with gloom?
'Cause I walk like I've got oil wells
Pumping in my living room.
Just like moons and like suns,
With the certainty of tides,
Just like hopes springing high,
Still I'll rise.
Did you want to see me broken?
Bowed head and lowered eyes?
Shoulders falling down like teardrops.
Weakened by my soulful cries.
Does my haughtiness offend you?
Don't you take it awful hard
'Cause I laugh like I've got gold mines
Diggin' in my own back yard.
You may shoot me with your words,
You may cut me with your eyes,
You may kill me with your hatefulness,
But still, like air, I'll rise.
Does my sexiness upset you?
Does it come as a surprise
That I dance like I've got diamonds
At the meeting of my thighs?
Out of the huts of history's shame
I rise
Up from a past that's rooted in pain
I rise
I'm a black ocean, leaping and wide,
Welling and swelling I bear in the tide.
Leaving behind nights of terror and fear
I rise
Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear
I rise
Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave,
I am the dream and the hope of the slave.
I rise
I rise
I rise.
Summary / Analysis
Still I Rise is an emphatic poem that speaks to defiance and strength in the face of adversity, particularly reflecting the experiences of Black women. Throughout the poem, Angelou uses the repetition of the phrase "I rise" to emphasize her determination and unyielding spirit, regardless of the oppression she faces. She addresses historical injustices, personal challenges, and societal expectations, asserting her worth and ability to overcome and disregard obstacles. Angelou fights the idea that black women should stay in their place with phrases like "Does my haughtiness offend you?" and "Does my sassiness upset you?"
The poem's first seven stanzas are quatrains with a distinct ABCB rhyme scheme. This choice of poetic form enhances the poem's rhythmic quality. Using vivid imagery, similes, and metaphors such as "oil wells Pumping in my living room" adds depth to her message, illustrating the strength of embracing one's racial identity and defying historical norms. The conversational tone invites readers to connect with her narrative on a personal level, making it relatable and inspiring. Overall, Still I Rise celebrates resilience, self-affirmation, and the indomitable spirit of marginalized voices.
