Amanda Gorman is a name that has become synonymous with the power of words, activism, and art. She has captured the world’s attention with her profound poetry that delves into themes of oppression, feminism, race, and the African diaspora. But who is Amanda Gorman? This article explores the life, achievements, and influences of this extraordinary young woman who has not only broken barriers but continues to inspire millions around the globe.
Early Life and Education
Born on March 7, 1998, in Los Angeles, California, Amanda Gorman was raised by her single mother, Joan Wicks, a dedicated sixth-grade English teacher in Watts. Amanda grew up in a household where education and creativity were highly valued. She and her two siblings, including her twin sister Gabrielle, an activist and filmmaker, had limited access to television, which led them to develop a love for reading and writing at a young age.
Amanda has been open about her struggles with an auditory processing disorder and hypersensitivity to sound, challenges that were compounded by a speech impediment in her childhood. However, rather than letting these obstacles hinder her, Amanda turned them into strengths. Through speech therapy and persistent practice, she overcame her impediment and found solace in reading and writing. As she once stated, “I always saw it as a strength because since I was experiencing these obstacles in terms of my auditory and vocal skills, I became really good at reading and writing.”
Amanda attended New Roads, a private school in Santa Monica, where she excelled academically. As a senior, she was awarded a Milken Family Foundation college scholarship, enabling her to attend Harvard College. At Harvard, she studied sociology, graduating cum laude in 2020. Her academic journey also included a semester in Madrid, Spain, which broadened her global perspective and deepened her understanding of social issues.
The Rise of a Poet and Activist
Amanda Gorman’s journey as a poet and activist began in her early teens. At the age of 16, she was already making waves in the literary world, editing the first draft of a novel and founding the nonprofit organization One Pen One Page, a youth writing and leadership program. In 2014, she was chosen as the first youth poet laureate of Los Angeles, a significant milestone that marked the beginning of her rise to national prominence.
Her poetry, deeply rooted in issues of social justice, quickly gained attention for its powerful messages and eloquent delivery. In 2015, she published her first poetry book, The One for Whom Food Is Not Enough, showcasing her early talent and commitment to addressing pressing social issues through her art.
Amanda’s work caught the eye of influential organizations and figures, leading to opportunities that would further propel her career. In 2017, she became the first youth poet to open the literary season for the Library of Congress, a prestigious honor that solidified her status as a leading voice of her generation. That same year, she was named the first-ever National Youth Poet Laureate, a title that recognized her exceptional contributions to poetry and activism.
The Inauguration Poem: “The Hill We Climb”
Amanda Gorman’s meteoric rise to international fame came on January 20, 2021, when she delivered her poem “The Hill We Climb” at the inauguration of President Joe Biden. At just 22 years old, she became the youngest poet in U.S. history to perform at a presidential inauguration. Her performance was nothing short of extraordinary, capturing the hope and resilience of a nation during a time of deep division and uncertainty.
The poem, which she had written and revised in the wake of the January 6 Capitol riot, struck a chord with millions of viewers worldwide. Amanda’s words, “For there is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it,” resonated deeply, offering a message of unity and hope.
Following her inauguration performance, Amanda’s career skyrocketed. Her upcoming books, including the poetry collection The Hill We Climb and the children’s book Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem, quickly became bestsellers. Her work was praised for its ability to speak to both young and old, bridging generational gaps through the power of language.
Beyond the Inauguration: Continued Impact and Influence
Amanda Gorman’s influence extends far beyond the inauguration stage. In February 2021, she became the first poet to perform at the Super Bowl, delivering her poem “Chorus of the Captains” during the pregame ceremony of Super Bowl LV. This performance, like her inauguration poem, was a tribute to unity and resilience, honoring the essential workers who had served as frontline heroes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her accomplishments have earned her a place on Time magazine’s 100 Next list under the category of “Phenoms,” with a profile written by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Amanda has also graced the covers of major magazines, including Vogue, where she became the first poet ever featured.
Despite her rapid rise to fame, Amanda remains grounded in her commitment to social justice. She continues to use her platform to advocate for causes she believes in, including climate change, racial equality, and women’s rights. In the wake of the 2022 Uvalde school shooting, she penned the poignant poem “Hymn for the Hurting,” calling for action and gun reform. Amanda has also been a vocal supporter of abortion rights, particularly in response to the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Influences and Aspirations
Amanda Gorman’s work is deeply influenced by the literary and cultural icons who came before her. She has cited Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, and Audre Lorde as some of her biggest inspirations, along with modern figures like Michelle Obama and the Duchess of Sussex. These influences are evident in her poetry, which seamlessly weaves together themes of identity, history, and empowerment.
Amanda’s ambitions extend beyond poetry. In 2017, she announced her intention to run for president in 2036, a goal she has reiterated several times since. Her aspiration to enter the political arena is driven by a desire to turn her words into actions, using her platform to create tangible change.
Conclusion
So, who is Amanda Gorman? She is a poet, an activist, a trailblazer, and a voice for the voiceless. Through her powerful words and unwavering commitment to social justice, she has inspired a generation to believe in the power of language and the importance of standing up for what is right. Amanda Gorman is not just a poet; she is a movement, and her impact on the world is only just beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Amanda Gorman’s most famous poem?
Amanda Gorman’s most famous poem is “The Hill We Climb,” which she delivered at the inauguration of President Joe Biden in 2021.
2. How did Amanda Gorman overcome her speech impediment?
Amanda Gorman overcame her speech impediment through speech therapy and by practicing challenging songs, such as “Aaron Burr, Sir” from the musical Hamilton.
3. What are Amanda Gorman’s main themes in her poetry?
Amanda Gorman’s poetry often explores themes of oppression, feminism, race, marginalization, and the African diaspora.
4. What awards and recognitions has Amanda Gorman received?
Amanda Gorman has received numerous awards, including being named the first National Youth Poet Laureate, appearing on Time’s 100 Next list, and becoming the first poet to perform at the Super Bowl.
5. What are Amanda Gorman’s future aspirations?
Amanda Gorman has expressed her intention to run for president in 2036, driven by her desire to continue making a positive impact through both her words and actions.