Phenomenal Woman
by Maya Angelou
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size.
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms,
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman.
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman.
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can’t see.
I say,
It’s in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The rise of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I’m a woman.
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.Now you understand
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about,
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing,
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It’s in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
The palm of my hand,
The need for my care.
’Cause I’m a woman.
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
Unveiling the Essence of “Phenomenal Woman”
Maya Angelou’s iconic poem, “Phenomenal Woman,” stands as a beacon of self-affirmation and empowerment, captivating readers since its publication in 1978. This masterpiece transcends conventional notions of beauty, offering a profound exploration of what truly makes a woman captivating and powerful. For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of “Phenomenal Woman,” its summary, central message, and enduring impact, this guide provides a comprehensive analysis.
What is “Phenomenal Woman” About?
At its heart, “Phenomenal Woman” is a celebration of inherent female strength, confidence, and allure that radiates from within, rather than conforming to external beauty standards. The poem’s speaker, a woman who does not fit typical fashion model ideals, articulates the source of her undeniable magnetism. She reveals that her power lies not in superficial prettiness, but in her presence, her spirit, and the way she carries herself. It is a declaration that true beauty is multifaceted, deeply personal, and profoundly impactful.
Central Ideas and Enduring Themes
The central idea of “Phenomenal Woman” revolves around the notion that a woman’s true appeal stems from her inner confidence, her self-possession, and her unique spirit. This captivating essence, described as an “inner mystery,” is what makes her truly phenomenal. The poem champions a redefinition of beauty, moving beyond physical appearance to embrace a holistic sense of self. Key themes explored include:
- Self-Confidence and Self-Acceptance: The unwavering belief in one’s own worth and beauty, independent of external validation.
- Challenging Conventional Beauty Standards: A powerful critique of narrow societal definitions of attractiveness, advocating for a broader, more inclusive view.
- Female Empowerment: A resounding affirmation of women’s strength, grace, and ability to command respect and admiration simply by being themselves.
- Individuality and Authenticity: The celebration of what makes each woman unique and the importance of embracing one’s authentic self.
In-Depth Analysis of the Poem
To fully appreciate “Phenomenal Woman,” a closer look at each stanza reveals how Maya Angelou meticulously crafts her message of empowerment and self-love.
Stanza 1: Redefining Beauty Beyond the Superficial
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size.
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms,
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman.
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
The poem opens by immediately establishing a contrast between the speaker and “pretty women” who adhere to conventional beauty norms. The speaker declares, “I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size,” directly challenging the narrow ideals often presented by society. The repeated phrase, “I say,” introduces the speaker’s authoritative voice, asserting her self-worth against external skepticism. She defines her allure not by delicate features, but by the powerful and graceful aspects of her physical form: “the reach of my arms, The span of my hips, The stride of my step, The curl of my lips.” These are presented as sources of strength and confidence, rather than flaws. The stanza’s powerful refrain, “I’m a woman. Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me,” serves as a declaration of identity and unwavering self-assurance.
Stanza 2: Commanding Presence and Captivating Allure
I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman.
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
This stanza vividly portrays the speaker’s magnetic presence and the profound effect she has on others. Her entrance into a room is described with effortless confidence: “I walk into a room Just as cool as you please.” The hyperbolic imagery of men who “stand or fall down on their knees” and “swarm around me, A hive of honey bees,” powerfully conveys her captivating influence. This attraction is not sought, but a natural emanation of her self-possession. The source of this allure is further detailed: “the fire in my eyes, And the flash of my teeth, The swing in my waist, And the joy in my feet.” These are not merely physical attributes, but expressions of her vitality, inner strength, and zest for life. The stanza concludes with the reinforcing refrain, solidifying her phenomenal identity.
Stanza 3: Inner Mystery and Unseen Beauty
Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can’t see.
I say,
It’s in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The rise of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I’m a woman.
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
The third stanza delves into the enigmatic quality of the speaker’s appeal. Men are depicted as “wondering what they see,” yet they are unable to fully grasp her essence. The phrase “My inner mystery” suggests a depth and complexity that transcends superficial understanding, highlighting that true beauty is not easily quantifiable or explained. Even when the speaker attempts to reveal her secret, others “still can’t see,” underscoring the subjective and internal nature of her power. She attributes this mystery to “the arch of my back, The sun of my smile, The rise of my breasts, The grace of my style.” These elements combine physical poise with an undeniable inner radiance and self-assuredness. The repeated “I say” emphasizes her agency in defining her own beauty, independent of external comprehension.
Stanza 4: Unbowed Head and Proud Stride
Now you understand
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about,
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing,
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It’s in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
The palm of my hand,
The need for my care.
’Cause I’m a woman.
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
The final stanza serves as a powerful culmination, bringing the reader into full understanding of the speaker’s self-respect and pride. The speaker explains that her profound confidence is the reason “my head’s not bowed.” She asserts that she does not need to resort to overt attention-seeking behaviors like shouting or talking loudly to command respect. Instead, she carries herself with quiet dignity and an inherent self-assuredness. The imagery of “the click of my heels,” “the bend of my hair,” and “the palm of my hand” suggests a natural, effortless grace in her everyday actions. The profound statement, “The need for my care,” subtly but significantly points to the importance of self-love and self-respect as foundational to her inner strength and outward radiance. The poem triumphantly concludes with the confident affirmation: “’Cause I’m a woman. Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me,” leaving an indelible impression of empowered identity.
Literary and Poetic Devices in “Phenomenal Woman”
Maya Angelou masterfully employs a range of literary and poetic devices to imbue “Phenomenal Woman” with its captivating rhythm, vivid imagery, and profound message. Understanding these devices enhances appreciation for the poem’s artistry.
- Extended Metaphor: The entire poem functions as an extended metaphor, comparing the speaker to a force of nature or an irresistible phenomenon. Her presence and allure are not merely physical attributes but a powerful, almost mystical, essence.
- Imagery: Angelou’s use of vivid imagery creates a sensory experience, allowing readers to visualize the speaker’s grace and power. Examples include “the fire in my eyes,” “the flash of my teeth,” “the swing in my waist,” and “the click of my heels.” These images paint a picture of dynamic, confident movement and expression.
- Repetition: The strategic repetition of phrases like “I say” and the powerful refrain “I’m a woman. Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me” emphasizes the speaker’s agency, reinforces her self-affirmation, and creates a memorable, rhythmic quality.
- Anaphora: The repetition of “It’s in the…” at the beginning of several lines in each stanza (e.g., “It’s in the reach of my arms, The span of my hips, The stride of my step”) creates a rhythmic, incantatory effect, building a list of attributes that define her phenomenal nature.
- Hyperbole: Exaggeration is used to emphasize the speaker’s captivating effect on others. Lines such as “The fellows stand or fall down on their knees” and “Then they swarm around me, A hive of honey bees” vividly illustrate her magnetic presence.
- Simile: The comparison “Then they swarm around me, A hive of honey bees” directly likens the men’s attraction to the speaker to bees drawn to honey, highlighting her irresistible allure.
- Free Verse: While the poem possesses a strong, consistent rhythm, it does not adhere to a strict rhyme scheme or metrical pattern. This free verse structure allows for a natural, conversational, and authentic tone, mirroring the speaker’s unconstrained confidence.
- Alliteration and Assonance: Subtle uses of alliteration (repetition of consonant sounds) and assonance (repetition of vowel sounds) contribute to the poem’s musicality. For instance, “span of my hips, The stride of my step” (alliteration) or “fire in my eyes” (assonance) add to the flow and impact of the lines.
Quotable Lines from “Phenomenal Woman”
Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman” is rich with powerful and inspiring lines that resonate deeply. These excerpts are particularly impactful for discussions on self-esteem, body image, and female empowerment:
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size.
This line boldly challenges conventional beauty standards, asserting that a woman’s worth and attractiveness are not dictated by societal ideals or physical measurements. It is a powerful statement of self-acceptance.
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
These lines beautifully encapsulate the speaker’s vibrant inner spirit and physical confidence. They highlight how her allure stems from her vitality, expressiveness, and the sheer joy she embodies.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
This excerpt speaks to the profound depth of a woman’s being, suggesting that her true essence is an intangible quality that cannot be fully grasped or defined by others. It emphasizes the power of an internal, unquantifiable allure.
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about,
Or have to talk real loud.
These lines embody the power of quiet confidence and dignity. They convey that true strength and self-respect do not require outward displays of aggression or attention-seeking, but rather an unwavering inner poise.
The Enduring Legacy of “Phenomenal Woman”
Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman” remains a timeless anthem of self-love and female empowerment. Its profound message continues to inspire countless individuals to embrace their unique beauty, celebrate their inner strength, and challenge restrictive societal norms. The poem serves as a powerful reminder that true allure emanates from confidence, authenticity, and the radiant spirit within every woman. By exploring its rich imagery, compelling themes, and masterful use of poetic devices, readers gain not only a deeper appreciation for literature but also a renewed sense of their own phenomenal potential. This poem is more than just words; it is a call to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary in the everyday woman.