Assignment: Comparing the Work of Nikki Giovanni, Sonia Sanchez, and Mari Evans from 1960-1970
Introduction
The Black Arts Movement of the 1960s and 1970s was a period of great creativity and activism in the African American community. During this time, a number of talented poets emerged, including Nikki Giovanni, Sonia Sanchez, and Mari Evans. These poets used their work to express the experiences of Black people in America, to challenge racism and oppression, and to celebrate Black culture and identity.
Please consider using your textbook, The Norton Anthology African American Literature, for this assignment. You will find that it is a very valuable resource. The poems and page numbers are included here.
Nikki Giovanni
Nikki Giovanni is an American poet, writer, educator, and activist. She is one of the most important and influential figures in the Black Arts Movement. Giovanni’s poetry is characterized by its directness, its humor, and its strong political message. She has written about a wide range of topics, including racism, sexism, poverty, and love.
Poems:
For Saundra pg. 1982
Beautiful Black Men pg 1983
Nikki-Rosa pg 1984
Sonia Sanchez
Sonia Sanchez is an American poet, playwright, activist, and educator. She is a pioneer in the field of Black Arts Literature. Sanchez’s poetry is known for its powerful imagery, its rhythmic cadences, and its exploration of themes such as social justice, Black identity, and the power of the word.
Poems:
homecoming pg.1903
poem at thirty pg. 1903
A Blues Book for Blue Black Magical Women pg 1905
Mari Evans
Mari Evans is an American poet, essayist, and playwright. She is a leading figure in the Black Arts Movement. Evans’ poetry is characterized by its wit, its wisdom, and its ability to capture the essence of the Black experience. She has written about a wide range of topics, including love, loss, racial injustice, and the power of hope.
Poems:Status Symbol pg. 1807I Am a Black Woman pg. 1808
Assignment
For this assignment, you will compare and contrast the work of Nikki Giovanni, Sonia Sanchez, and Mari Evans. You will focus on the following:
In your essay, you should be sure to provide specific examples from the poets’ work to support your arguments. You should also use evidence from secondary sources to help you understand the poets’ work and its context.
Grading
This assignment will be graded on the following criteria:
Resources