Maya.

Poet.

I know why.

Maya Angelou.

Poet.

I know why.

Unstoppable.

Poet.

I know why.

Diverse.

Poet.

I know why.

Singer.

Poet.

I know why.

Dancer.

Poet.

I know why.

Journalist.

Poet.

I know why.

Civil-rights activist.

Poet.

I know why.

Memoirist.

Poet.

I know why.

Screenwriter.

Poet.

I know why.

Published I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings in 1969.

Poet.

I know why.

Nominated for a National Book Award in 1970.

Poet.

I know why.

One of the most influential books of modern times.

Poet.

I know why.

First African-American poet and first female poet to participate in a recitation for a U.S. president's inauguration.

Poet.

I know why.

Bestowed the 2010 Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Poet.

I know why.

The highest civilian honor in the United States.

Poet.

I know why.

I know why the caged bird sings, ah me,
When his wing is bruised and his bosom sore,
When he beats his bars and would be free;
It is not a carol of joy or glee,
But a prayer that he sends from his heart's deep core,
But a plea, that upward to Heaven he flings –
I know why the caged bird sings. ~Paul Laurence Dunbar