Brief Bio
Amanda Gorman, the celebrated young American poet, activist, and an extraordinary embodiment of resilience, has profoundly influenced the world of contemporary literature with her remarkable flair for words. The 2017 U.S. Youth Poet Laureate, born on March 7, 1998, in Los Angeles, California, has made significant strides in poetry, leveraging her passion, tenacity, and the power of her voice to reshape narratives and inspire millions globally.
Gorman's journey to poetic stardom is a tale woven with threads of unwavering determination and sheer perseverance. Born into a single-parent family, Gorman was raised by her mother, Joan Wicks, an English teacher who instilled in her a deep love for literature. Despite her auditory processing disorder and a speech impediment, Gorman's voracious appetite for words never waned. Instead, these challenges only fueled her fascination with the language and honed her distinctive rhythm in poetry.
During her early years, Gorman turned to writing as a tool for communication, expressing herself through eloquent verses and compelling narratives. She was only a third-grader when she penned her first collection of poetry. By the time she was 14, Gorman had become a youth delegate for the United Nations, advocating for girls' education globally, drawing from her experience and insights to enrich her poetry.
Gorman's educational journey was equally notable. She graduated from New Roads, a private school in Santa Monica, California, before heading east to attend Harvard University. A stellar student, Gorman studied Sociology and graduated cum laude from Harvard in 2020. Her studies at Harvard deepened her understanding of society and its influences, thereby enriching her poetic exploration of socio-cultural issues.
Her literary achievements began to receive wider recognition when she was named the Youth Poet Laureate of Los Angeles at 16. But it was in 2017 that she skyrocketed to national fame when she became the first person to be named National Youth Poet Laureate. Gorman's writing, often blending artful lyricism with pressing issues of social justice, racial equality, and feminism, captured the hearts and minds of many, making her one of the most influential young poets in America.
Gorman's moment of global acclaim came on January 20, 2021, when she was invited to perform at the presidential inauguration of Joe Biden. Her poem, "The Hill We Climb," written after the Capitol riots, called for unity and resilience, challenging and inspiring the nation at the same time. The youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, Gorman's stunning performance left an indelible mark, catapulting her onto the world stage.
Later that year, Gorman's debut poetry collection, "The Hill We Climb and Other Poems," was released, further showcasing her unparalleled talent and insight. Her collection, resounding with themes of hope, resilience, and the struggle for equality, reinforced her position as a voice of her generation.
In addition to her poetry, Gorman's activism is a significant part of her identity. She has demonstrated a profound commitment to social causes, particularly advocating for racial and gender equality, youth literacy, and the power of poetry as a medium of change. Gorman is also the founder of One Pen One Page, a non-profit organization aimed at promoting literacy and leadership among underserved youth.
Gorman's meteoric rise is also a testament to her charisma and style. She was featured on the cover of Vogue's May 2021 issue, becoming the first poet to be accorded such an honor. In the same year, she co-chaired the Met Gala, further solidifying her status as a cultural icon.
Amanda Gorman's journey is a vivid testament to the transformative power of words. From a young girl grappling with a speech impediment to the inaugural poet lauded worldwide, Gorman embodies the spirit of resilience. She has wielded her pen to paint stunning vistas of hope and challenge, turning her personal struggles into a source of inspiration for others.
Gorman's work is a clarion call for unity, resilience, and the unfettered expression of the human spirit. As a poet, an activist, and an influencer, Gorman's influence stretches far beyond the confines of poetry. She exemplifies a generation that dares to dream and strives to effect change through the power of words. As she continues to write her story in verse and deeds, one thing is clear: Amanda Gorman is not just a poet; she is a movement, a force shaping the landscape of contemporary literature and social discourse.
Poems - 20 in all
Amanda Gorman
& SO
LIFE
CALL US
ALARUM
CLOSURE
COMPASS
GOOD GRIEF
SCHOOL'S OUT
THE SHALLOWS
ARBORESCENT I
SHIP'S MANIFEST
THE HILL WE CLIMB
PRACTICE MAKES PEOPLE
THE UNORDINARY WORLD
THERE'S NO POWER LIKE HOME
Amanda Gorman - 2 ~ New ~
LUCENT
WE WRITE
RESOLUTE
BACK TO THE PAST
EVERY DAY WE ARE LEARNING
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