Writer’s Workshop Wednesday: Alice Walker

An author, poet, and activist, Alice Walker has been a strong African-American female voice in American literature since her first poetry collection, Once, was published in 1968.  Since then, Walker has authored a number of novels, short story collections, poetry anthologies, and non-fiction works.  

Mainstream audiences know her best for her novel, The Color Purple (1982), which was adapted into a film in 1985 and starred Oprah Winfrey and Danny Glover.  It was also adapted into a Broadway musical in 2005.

Along with his writing, Walker is an outspoken activist for civil rights and womanism, and the themes of her works reflect her views on these topics and many others.  She is also an animal rights activist.  

Below are several interviews with Walker speaking about his works and her creative process.

Check out her official site HERE.

Enjoy!

Back in two weeks with another great author!

Writer’s Workshop Wednesday: Maya Angelou

A powerful and iconic voice in American literature and poetry, Maya Angelou’s life and her works have mesmerized and empowered generations of people worldwide. Her resonant poems and her series of autobiographical works give us insight into who Angelou is. Her struggles and how she overcame adversity and racism to become the strong African-American woman she’s known as today continue to empower those who learn about her.

Most people have heard of her first autobiographical work, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Others are familiar with her powerful poem, “On the Pulse of Morning,” which she read at former President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in 1993. Angelou has authored eight autobiographical books, fifteen books of poetry, two cookbooks, seven children’s books, several personal essays, and numerous writing credits in film, TV, and theatre.  

Sadly, Maya Angelou passed away in 2014. Still, her legacy as a writer, poet, and speaker continues to impact and influence the lives of those who encounter her works and her words. Her voice is forever a part of American literature.

Learn more about Maya Angelou HERE.

Below are several interviews with Angelou over the years discussing her works, her life, her activism, and her writing.

Enjoy!

Check back next week for another great author!