Maya Angelou is indeed featured prominently in Laurie Halse Anderson's novel "Speak". In the book, the protagonist Melinda sees a poster of Maya Angelou and it becomes a source of inspiration and comfort for her.
The poster is a powerful symbol throughout the story. For Melinda, it represents a connection to something bigger than herself, a reminder that she is not alone in her struggles. The quote on the poster, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel," becomes a rallying cry for Melinda as she navigates her difficult freshman year.
Maya Angelou's words also serve as a counterpoint to the cruel and dismissive treatment Melinda receives from many of the adults in her life. The poster is a reminder that there are people who care about her, who value her voice and her experiences.
It's worth noting that Laurie Halse Anderson has spoken publicly about how Maya Angelou's work was an inspiration for her own writing, particularly in terms of exploring themes of trauma, silence, and the power of language. So, the inclusion of the poster in "Speak" is likely a nod to both Angelou's impact on Anderson's own creative process as well as her significance as a cultural icon and advocate for social justice.
Maya Angelou was a renowned American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. She is widely regarded as one of the most influential African-American writers of her time. Here are some inspiring Maya Angelou quotes:
1. **"You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them."**
2. **"Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better."**
3. **"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."**
4. **"Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope."**
5. **"You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody."**
6. **"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style."**
7. **"Still, I can hear them whispering: 'You may think you know what it's like, but you don't.' And they're right. You never know what it's like to be me."** (From her book "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings")
8. **"We may encounter many defeats, but none are insurmountable as long as we lose our fear of failure."**
9. **"When you learn, teach. When you get, give."**
10. **"History, despite its trumpets, laurels, and ballyhoos, is a fickle mistress."** (From her poem "Still I Rise")
11. **"I am the product of the African American experience, but I'm not just defined by that experience. I'm a universal human being."**
12. **"Hate, it has never left me. The venomous lassitude in old age hastens itself to my door now, and I am grateful... for the years I had with her."** (From her poem "When I Think About Myself")
These quotes showcase Maya Angelou's wisdom, resilience, and passion for living a meaningful life. Her words continue to inspire and motivate people around the world.