Amanda Gorman Biography

Short Summary

Amanda Gorman is a renowned American poet and activist known for her powerful use of words to address social issues such as race, feminism, and oppression. She gained international fame after delivering her poem "The Hill We Climb" at the inauguration of President Joe Biden in January 2021. Gorman's work has been celebrated for its depth, clarity, and urgency, establishing her as a leading voice in contemporary poetry and activism.

Early Life & Education

Amanda Gorman was born on March 7, 1998, in Los Angeles, California. Raised by her mother, Joan Wicks, a teacher, Gorman grew up with a passion for reading and writing that was nurtured from a young age. She has a twin sister, Gabrielle, who is also creatively inclined. Amanda attended New Roads, a private school in Santa Monica, and later went on to study sociology at Harvard University, where she graduated cum laude. Her early life was marked by challenges, including a speech impediment, which she overcame and later credited as an inspiration for her dedication to poetry and performance.

Career Highlights

Gorman's career took off when she was named the first National Youth Poet Laureate of the United States in 2017. She published her first poetry book "The One for Whom Food Is Not Enough" in 2015 and followed it with "The Hill We Climb: An Inaugural Poem for the Country" in 2021. Her performance at President Biden's inauguration drew widespread acclaim and made her the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history. She has continued to engage audiences through her writing, public speaking, and activism, making significant contributions to discussions on social justice and equity.

Major Achievements

- First National Youth Poet Laureate (2017) - Recognized for her exceptional talent and promise in poetry.
- Inaugural Poet (2021) - Became the youngest poet to perform at a U.S. presidential inauguration.
- Publication of "The Hill We Climb" (2021) - Her inaugural poem was published as a standalone book, reaching a wide audience.
- Time's 100 Next (2021) - Named in the first-ever TIME 100 Next list, recognizing rising leaders.

Famous Quotes

"For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it."
"Poetry is an instrument for social change."

Interesting Facts

She overcame a speech impediment in childhood, which she credits with sparking her interest in poetry.
Gorman has an interest in politics and has expressed the ambition to run for president in 2036.
She is an advocate for sustainability and has spoken at the United Nations on the topic.
Her twin sister, Gabrielle, is a filmmaker and activist.

Legacy / Influence

Amanda Gorman's legacy is marked by her ability to inspire and mobilize through the power of poetry. Her work has reignited interest in spoken word and has highlighted the role of young voices in shaping the future. She serves as a role model for aspiring poets and activists, demonstrating how art can be harnessed for profound cultural and social impact.