Maya Angelou: A Timeless Communicator

The first time I read the Maya Angelou quote, "People forget what you said, they forget what you did, but they don't forget the way you made them feel." I can't remember what I was doing, or why I read it, but that's almost the ironic twist. Regardless, her words stayed with me, and since then, I have referenced the quote many times in the communications advice I now give. Maya Angelou (1928-2014) was a poet, memoirist, civil rights activist, and communicator without bounds. Here’s what we can all learn from her.

When Writing Becomes Life-Changing

Maya Angelou's writing style flowed with a directness and conversational intimacy that allowed readers to connect with her words on a profoundly personal level. Her words carried emotional weight, each deliberately selected to evoke specific feelings. In "Still I Rise," she crafted lines that continue to transcend generations. This is captured in this excerpt from the poem:

“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.”

These words surpass mere communication - they breathe, pulse and inspire. The three words “I Still Rise” perfectly summarise the essence of building resilience, and the importance of continuously adapting, adjusting, and accepting rather than resenting.

In her autobiographical works, Angelou blended first-person narrative with dialogue and figurative language and imagery, creating a vivid and immersive experience for readers. This unique approach helped her explore complex themes such as tragedy, abuse, and identity with remarkable clarity and impact. Her writing didn't simply communicate ideas; it transmitted feelings, memories, and truths that readers could relate to in their own lives.

A Writer and Orator

Angelou's verbal communication skills were equally impressive. Her ability to captivate audiences with her rich, melodious voice and carefully chosen words made her a sought-after speaker. She understood the musicality of language, delivering each syllable with intention and rhythm.

Her masterful use of humour made her exceptional, even when discussing the most painful subjects. In her speeches and interviews, Angelou often employed laughter as a tool for connection and survival. Despite addressing the deep wounds of racism, sexism, and personal trauma, she understood how humour could create bridges where barriers stood. She once said, "If you don't laugh, you'll die... Against the cruelties of life, one must laugh."

Performer Extraordinaire

Angelou’s performances were symphonies of expression, with her voice modulating from whisper to declaration. Her recitation of "Still I Rise" at the Lewisham Hippodrome in South London in 1987, which you can watch here, is a perfect example of her captivating stage presence. Her powerful delivery, hands punctuating emotions, and face revealing the interior landscape behind the words transformed her already impactful words into an unforgettable experience for the audience.

Legacy

Her legacy as a communicator lies in her ability to touch hearts and minds through genuine expression and emotional connection. Whether through her writing, speeches, or performances, she consistently demonstrated the power of words to inspire and uplift.

So, when you rise tomorrow, think about how you want to make someone feel when you send them a morning WhatsApp, have lunch with friends, or acknowledge someone passing along the street. It has the potential to be a feeling they won’t forget.