Nikki Giovanni, the celebrated poet and a prominent figure of the Black Arts Movement, has passed away at the age of 81. She died on December 9, following a battle with cancer, as confirmed by her friend and fellow author Renée Watson. Poet Kwame Alexander expressed gratitude for Giovanni’s profound impact on many aspiring writers, stating, “We will forever be grateful for the unconditional time she gave to us, to all her literary children across the writerly world.”
Giovanni’s literary career began with her first collection, “Black Feeling Black Talk,” published in 1968, which firmly positioned her as a significant voice in the Black Arts Movement. Her poetry often explored the delicate interplay of love, politics, loneliness, and race, characterized by her powerful and evocative language. One of her remarkable poems, “Word Poem,” ends with the poignant lines: “let’s build / what we become / when we dream.”
Born Yolanda Cornelia Giovanni, Jr. on June 7, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Giovanni spent her formative years in Cincinnati before returning to Nashville to attend Fisk University. It was there that she connected with fellow influential writers, including Dudley Randall and Margaret Walker, while also becoming involved with the civil rights movement.
Throughout her illustrious career, Giovanni gained national recognition, appearing as a guest on the seminal arts and culture show “Soul!” and engaging in critical discussions such as her conversation with James Baldwin. She received numerous accolades, including being named “Woman of the Year” by both Ebony magazine and Mademoiselle.
Giovanni dedicated over three decades to teaching English at Virginia Tech, where her legacy as an educator and advocate for understanding through creativity was profound. In the wake of the tragic Virginia Tech shooting in 2007, she spoke on the nature of violence, reflecting on the importance of creativity and understanding one’s place in the world.
Her unwavering passion for poetry remained strong until her passing, and she was actively working on her forthcoming poetry collection, titled “THE LAST BOOK,” which is set to be published next year. Giovanni’s contributions to literature and her powerful voice will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.
In summary, while the loss of Nikki Giovanni is deeply felt, her legacy, influence, and the upcoming publication of her last works provide hope and continue to inspire the literary community and beyond. Her life’s work is a reminder of the importance of creativity, understanding, and self-expression in the face of adversity.