On the Pulse of Morning by Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou's 'On the Pulse of Morning' is a profound and inspiring poem that was first recited at the inauguration of President Bill Clinton in 1993. This electronic text version, compiled by the University of Virginia's Electronic Text Center, offers access to the full poem in HTML format, along with images from the original print version. The poem is a call to unity and collective responsibility, urging readers to embrace change and work together for a better future. The poem is not only a historical artifact but also a literary masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers today. It explores themes of identity, culture, and the human experience, making it a significant work in the realm of poetry. The inclusion of images from the original print version adds a visual dimension to the text, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Reviews

Library of Congress Blog · 2021-02-16

impactful 4.00

Angelou's expressive delivery at the inaugural ceremony is praised, comparing it to the powerful sermons of Martin Luther King. The poem is seen as a significant and impactful piece.

The reviewer praises Maya Angelou's expressive delivery of the poem at the inaugural ceremony, comparing it to the powerful sermons of Martin Luther King. They highlight the poem's significance and impact, noting its ability to inspire and unite. The reviewer appreciates the poem's call for change and its timeless relevance. The poem is described as a powerful and moving piece that resonates deeply with its audience.

Quick quotes

Angelou's expressive delivery at the inaugural ceremony has been praised, like the earlier powerful sermon-like speeches of Martin Luther King.

The poem is seen as a significant and impactful piece.

The poem's call for change and its timeless relevance are highlighted.

First Impressions Reviews · 2013-09-25

inspiring 3.50

The poem is described as beautiful and thought-provoking, with a flow of inspirational words. The reviewer is not typically drawn to inspirational pieces but found this one engaging.

The reviewer highlights the beauty and flow of Maya Angelou's poem, noting its thought-provoking and inspirational qualities. They mention that while they are not usually inclined towards inspirational readings, this poem stood out to them. The words are described as powerful and evocative, making it a memorable piece. The reviewer appreciates the depth and wisdom conveyed in the poem, which addresses themes of unity and hope.

Quick quotes

Maya Angelou's poem was beautiful, a flow of thought-provoking inspirational words.

I am not an 'inspirational' reader. I usually find them ...

The poem's flow and depth make it a standout piece.

LitCharts · 1993-01-01

visionary 4.50

The poem is meant to inspire understanding of the need for change in U.S. environmental and economic policy. It suggests a viable future through unity and collective effort.

The reviewer discusses the poem's intention to inspire an understanding of the need for change in U.S. environmental and economic policy. They note that the poem suggests a viable future through unity and collective effort, emphasizing the importance of working together to build a better society. The reviewer appreciates the poem's call for action and its vision for a more just and equitable future. The poem is seen as a powerful and timely piece that addresses critical issues facing the nation.

Quick quotes

The poem is meant to inspire in its audience an understanding of the need for change in U.S. environmental and economic policy.

Suggesting that a viable future can be achieved through unity and collective effort.

The poem's call for action and its vision for a more just and equitable future are highlighted.

Appears in Lists

5 Must-Read Books by Maya Angelou