An Oriki Tribute to Nikki Giovanni

I learned of the passing of Nikki Giovanni and needed to honor such a giant with a proper Oriki.

Yolande Cornelia of House Giovanni.
THEE Nikki Giovanni.
Second of her name.
Poetry and Prose Priestess.
Revolutionary Rhapsodist.
Sage of Soul-Stirring Stanzas.
Distinguished Delta Dear.
Virginia’s Venerable Voice.
Legendary Laureate of Liberation.
Truthtelling Titan.
Ancestral Auteur of the Ages.

You dared to dream of a world where Black love flourished and justice reigned supreme. Your pen was your sword, and with it you carved pathways through the darkness.

Thank you for showing us how to love ourselves fiercely and speak our truths boldly. A time capsule. The walking embodiment of courage. Small but oh so mighty.

The world lost some soul poetic today. Rest in Peace. 🕊️❤️