"I find in my poetry and prose the rhythms and imagery of the best - I mean, when I'm at my best - of the good Southern black preachers. The lyricism of the spirituals and the directness of gospel songs and the mystery of blues are in my music or in my poetry and prose, or I missed everything."
Maya Angelou was an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. She is best known for I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and for her autobiographical writing. Her work and public voice made her one of the most influential literary figures of her generation.