An Analysis of On the Pulse of Morning by Maya Angelou Using a Historical Lens

Although “On the Pulse of Morning” might be analyzed using a Historical lens, the Philosophical lens offers a more personal approach to Angelou’s poem, which allows the the reader to better understand the intentions of this piece. Overall, this work does not follow any rhyme scheme or structure; this method of writing gives the author significantly more freedom in expressing her message. This, however, changes in lines 41-47, which have a very apparent rhyme scheme, “So say the Asian, the Hispanic, the Jew; The African and Native American, the Sioux…”(41-42).

This section brings a much more traditional poetic voice to the story, which is very similar to “the Blues”. The effect of this passage is substantial; it brings a human aspect that the first part of the poem lacks. Once this element is introduced, Angelou’s intention is clear: this poem is a reflection of her dream that all groups in America will be able to coexist in peace.

She reveals this enduring truth, which is evident in literature from all time periods, and hopes to spread it to the masses, using this piece as her vehicle to do so.

Angelou ends the poem with, “Here, on the pulse of this fine day you may have the grace to look up and out, and into your sister’s eyes, into your brother’s face, your country, and say simply, very simply, with hope: Good morning,”(99-106). This ends the poem on the notion that, Angelou’s intention is to not only inspire, but encourage readers to think more deeply about how their actions affect both personal relationships and the world itself.

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