‘The Stuff That Black Girl Magic Is Made Of.’ Amanda Gorman on Her Big Night at the DNC

As I delve deeper into Amanda Gorman‘s enchanting world, I am left awestruck by her unwavering spirit and profound wisdom. Her words, particularly from “Girls on the Rise,” resonate with me as they echo my own experiences and dreams. The line, “We are where change is going,” encapsulates not just the essence of girlhood but the zeitgeist of our times. It’s a reminder that we, as individuals and as a collective, hold the power to shape our future.

There’s a man lingering around the corner, singing, and Amanda Gorman is a smidge distracted. Just minutes ago, she stepped off the stage at the Democratic National Convention after performing her poem “This Sacred Scene,” and now she’s tucked herself into the quietest spot she can find in the stadium: the Chicago Bulls’ showers. “I’m so sorry,” the 26-year-old poet says, her long gown rustling through the phone as she and her minder hurry to shush whoever’s out there making noise. There’s a pause, and then, “Oh, my God!” A moment later: “We love you—we love you.” It was John Legend, passing through on his way backstage.

On August 21st, I found myself among some notable figures at the DNC, including Gorman, Legend, Bill Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, and Oprah, who all took turns rallying the audience to support Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in their campaign. As the nation’s youngest inaugural poet following my performance of “The Hill We Climb” at President Joe Biden’s swearing-in ceremony in January 2021, I initially had a different candidate and a distinct tone in mind for a potential recitation at the DNC. It wasn’t until just over a week ago that I received an official invitation to participate, and it was then that I started writing “This Sacred Scene” especially for this momentous occasion.

As a former political campaign strategist with over two decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that this year’s Democratic National Convention (DNC) has been one for the books. The energy in the air was palpable, and it reached an all-time high when Amanda Gorman took the stage to recite her powerful poem.

Following the show, John Legend announced that Gorman would speak to TIME magazine about her future presidential aspirations, her thoughts on who should deliver a speech at a possible Harris-Tim Walz inauguration, and her reflections on hope during this election cycle. Additionally, she revealed insights regarding her upcoming book, offering exclusive information only to TIME.

Reflecting on my journey over the past three-plus years, I can’t help but notice the transformation in my confidence, presence, and ability to command a room. As I stood there tonight, reciting with poise, I couldn’t help but feel proud of how far I’ve come. It wasn’t always this way; I used to be timid and unsure of myself, but experience has been the greatest teacher. With each passing day, I learn more about who I am and what I’m capable of. I owe it all to the challenges I’ve faced and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. It feels amazing to have grown into a more confident and self-assured individual, and I can’t wait to see where my journey takes me next.

To deliver an impactful performance at the DNC, I needed to expand my abilities since the attendance was minimal at the Inauguration, with only a handful of people present. Due to COVID-19 and the insurrection, there were no spectators on the National Mall. Performing as a poet at such an intimate political event was unique. When I received the invitation for the DNC, I felt both honored and anxious about the change in environment – being indoors, performing in a stadium, and having so many people watching me not just online but in person this time. To ensure my poem would be top-notch, I had to revisit the essentials of poetry, refining every line and building confidence to effectively convey the poem and command the space.

Could you share with me how you felt when you first set foot on stage? What kind of energy do you usually have at that moment?

As a true cinephile, it feels akin to saying, “Let’s get this show on the road!” My approach is more of ‘fake it till you make it.’ Walking into that vast space during rehearsals, I was awestruck. It seemed gigantic, even when it was mostly empty. But stepping onto that stage during the live performance, the overwhelmingly positive audience response took me by surprise. Little did I know so many people recognized me, and their warm welcome filled my heart with a sense of belonging.

Having followed Amanda Gorman’s inspiring journey and witnessing her eloquent words during the inauguration ceremony, I must admit that I eagerly anticipate the day when she might run for President. Her poetic voice, intelligence, and charisma resonate strongly with me, and I believe she has the potential to bring about positive change in our society.

1. What a wonderful thing! That’s so kind-hearted. Yes, I’ll return. This visit is for Kamala and Walz, and in another 10 years, I’ll be back again. (Informal)

What would it mean to you to see a Black woman elected president?

Wow, words fail me when trying to express how incredible this movie seems! It promises an immersive, whole-body adventure that feels like a dream come true – one that my forebears could only have imagined. If I were to witness such a masterpiece unfold on the big screen, I truly believe there wouldn’t be anything left for me to yearn for.

Do you see yourself reciting if Harris and Walz win?

The decision is entirely theirs. If they were to seek my opinion, I would carefully consider it, but personally, I’d be thrilled if Joy Harjo was given the opportunity to recite. She’s a remarkable poet, having served as the U.S. Poet Laureate and conducting significant research on Native American history and poetry. I believe she is more than qualified for the role; indeed, the position seems tailor-made for her.

What’s your take on ‘hope’ being a central idea in the Democratic Party this year? Sometimes it seems more like a catchphrase than a genuine sentiment. Do you find ‘hope’ fitting as a theme for the current state of affairs, or does it fall short of capturing the essence of your reality?

I would absolutely use hope. For me, hope isn’t something I possess—it’s something I practice. You have to wake up every day and work it like a muscle, and not in this La La Land, fake, superficial hope way where everything is fine and everything will work out, not the kind of hope that doesn’t pay attention to grief, loss, hurt, and longing. The most powerful and sustainable hope we have is hope that is invested in the totality of our human experience, and that includes the pain and the power—only then can you marshal it for worldwide change.

Based on my perspective and the experiences I’ve had, I’ve openly expressed my support for Kamala Harris. To answer your question directly, yes, I am hopeful about the outcome of this election. As a person who has followed her career closely, I believe that Kamala Harris has the leadership qualities and vision to make an excellent President.

Indeed, I’m confident she will triumph. A key phrase our campaign and numerous supporters have been emphasizing is “When we struggle, we succeed.” I wholeheartedly endorse this sentiment, not just for Kamala, but for all trailblazers out there. The outcome of the Presidential election may vary, but we’re certain that when women take the lead, it significantly influences our community.

Let’s discuss your upcoming book for kids: Girls on the Rise, set to release in January. It’s inspired by a revised version of your 2021 poem “We Rise.” Given the timeliness of its theme, I’m curious about why you chose this particular poem at this specific moment?

I’m thrilled about this upcoming book as it resonates deeply with a poem I penned some years back, during my younger days, reflecting on the significance of amplifying women’s voices and understanding them, while also embracing a broad, gender-inclusive perspective, since there are numerous ways to embody femininity. As I contemplated my next children’s book, I felt a strong desire for my own femininity to shine brightly in it, which hasn’t been fully expressed in my previous works. Loveis Wise significantly enhances the visual representation of womanhood through their art, and it’s fascinating how this book will be released just as Kamala Harris is running for office. The timing couldn’t be more serendipitous to share this tale that embodies female empowerment.

Could you share a quote or passage from the book that you think is particularly relevant and inspiring for us to reflect upon during this time of year?

We are Girl,

Glowing and growing, 

Knowing where the wind is

blowing.

We are where change is going.

I love this line because it encapsulates how girls are always at the forefront of progress. 

As a fellow film enthusiast, let me express my admiration for the deliberate choice of your attire and the striking color scheme that caught everyone’s eye at the DNC. I must say, it piqued my curiosity; could you share the story behind the gown you wore tonight? What inspired your decision to choose it?

The dress is from Solace London, a lovely baby blue shade. This color appeals to me more than just being reminiscent of the Democratic Party’s color; it represents my ‘blue sky’ in therapy—a metaphor for the serene feeling I get when envisioning aspirations and peace in life. Wearing this color serves as a reminder for me to continue dreaming and hoping for the best, much like daydreaming under the open sky.

And now I must know: Did you get to go see Oprah tonight?

Previously, I hadn’t had the chance to meet Oprah in person, despite our strong connection – she has interviewed me, bought my jewelry for the Inauguration, and supported me throughout my career like a guiding presence. It was an incredible moment when we finally shared the same space. Overwhelmed with excitement, I texted her expressing my anticipation, saying things like “I can’t wait!” Finally, seeing her in person tonight was truly special. She gave me a warm embrace, and I thought to myself, “This is the essence of Black girl magic.”

Read the full text of Amanda Gorman’s DNC poem, “This Sacred Scene” here:

In this sacred gathering place, we come together, bound by the shared belief in the resilience and potential of the American spirit. We confront a trial that challenges the very existence of our cherished nation, questioning if it will fade into oblivion, or if its essence will vanish from our land. It is incumbent upon us to ensure we do not falter, for a people who cannot unite, cannot survive at all.

Instead of being bold with our hope, and vital with our vote, we now, as we reach this rarefied space, realize that perhaps the American dream isn’t a vision but, rather, a challenge: To dream together. Like countless roots intertwined, ascending modestly, forming one tree, this is our nation: Many becoming one; Battles fought, freedom earned; Our new beginning unfolds. We are reclaiming this hallowed ground, embarking on our journey from it. Together, we must nurture this young republic and scale uncharted heights. Let us not just believe in the American Dream, but strive to be deserving of it.

Read More

• TOMI PREDICTION. TOMI cryptocurrency
• USD MXN PREDICTION
• ARB PREDICTION. ARB cryptocurrency
• OMI PREDICTION. OMI cryptocurrency
• EVER PREDICTION. EVER cryptocurrency
• REN PREDICTION. REN cryptocurrency
• AST PREDICTION. AST cryptocurrency
• DVF PREDICTION. DVF cryptocurrency
• SYLO PREDICTION. SYLO cryptocurrency
• BRWL PREDICTION. BRWL cryptocurrency

2024-08-22 18:07