In “Alone,” Angelou speaks of the sadness that arises when one is isolated and deprived of spiritual support and community. While Angelou herself sometimes led a very turbulent life, community is what saved her in times of trouble and propelled her to become the successful woman we recognize today.
Angelou had a hectic childhood. Upon her parents’ divorce when she was three years old, she left the bustling city life of her native St. Louis, Missouri, for a religious and predominantly African-American community nestled in Stamps, Arkansas. Angelou not only changed cities and lifestyles—she also changed caregivers. Her paternal grandmother, Annie Henderson, as well as her Uncle Willie, would raise her and her brother Bailey during their formative years.
Angelou’s grandmother was a force of nature, a hardworking and religious woman who ran a general store. She was deeply respected in the community, and Angelou would go on to cite her grandmother as a tremendous influence in her life. In Stamps, Angelou was loved and supported not only by her family, but by her neighbors. After being raped by her mother’s boyfriend at the age of eight, Angelou became mute for several years. It was the kindness of a teacher and family friend, Mrs. Bertha Flowers, that helped Angelou overcome her guilt and pain and find her voice again. Community was essential to helping Angelou develop into a strong woman.
As Angelou grew up, her mother began to play a more important role in the young woman’s life. When Angelou became pregnant unexpectedly at the age of 17, her mother gave her emotional support and a place to live. She ensured that Angelou and her baby were both loved, giving the young Maya the will to survive and succeed so as to be a good example for her baby.
As an adult, Angelou found solidarity with key figures of the civil rights movement, befriending and working alongside both Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. When Angelou’s interest in writing grew, prominent literary figures played key roles in her success. Angelou became good friends with the author James Baldwin, and his enthusiasm for her stories convinced her to pursue publication. With the financial support of friends, Angelou was able to keep writing until she published her first book.
Angelou’s life illustrates the importance of community for keeping one’s soul alive and living a triumphant life. As the poet describes in “Alone,” no one can truly survive—either emotionally or even physically—without the support of other people. Love, friendship, and faith carried Angelou through her life—all instilled by people who cared for her.
