Why Did Phillis Wheatley Write Poems? Exploring Her Motivations and Legacy

Phillis Wheatley, the first African American woman to publish a book of poetry, is a pivotal figure in American literature. But beyond her historical significance, a fundamental question arises: Why did Phillis Wheatley write poems? This article delves into the driving forces behind her literary endeavors, exploring the societal pressures, personal experiences, and intellectual influences that shaped her remarkable body of work. We’ll examine the context in which she lived and wrote, offering a comprehensive understanding of her poetic motivations.

The Harsh Reality of Enslavement: A Foundation for Artistic Expression

Wheatley’s life began in hardship. Kidnapped from West Africa and enslaved as a young girl, she arrived in Boston in 1761. The very act of writing poetry, for an enslaved person, was an act of defiance and a powerful assertion of her humanity. Understanding this backdrop is crucial to understanding her motivations. Her poems weren’t just creative endeavors; they were a means of survival, a voice in the face of silence, and a testament to her resilience.

Overcoming Oppression Through the Written Word

For Wheatley, poetry provided a crucial outlet. It allowed her to express emotions, ideas, and observations that might otherwise have been suppressed. By writing, she could challenge the dehumanizing realities of slavery and subtly critique the hypocrisy of a society that championed liberty while upholding the institution of human bondage. Her poems, even those that appeared outwardly religious or celebratory, often contained a hidden layer of social commentary.

The Influence of the Wheatley Family: Nurturing Talent

Fortunately, Wheatley’s circumstances were somewhat unique. She was purchased by the Wheatley family, who, unlike many slave owners, recognized her intellectual potential. Susanna Wheatley, in particular, played a significant role in fostering her education. This access to literacy and a supportive environment provided the bedrock for her poetic development.

Embracing Education and Encouragement

The Wheatleys taught her to read and write, exposing her to classical literature, the Bible, and other influential texts. This education was instrumental in shaping her poetic style and providing her with the tools to express herself. The family’s encouragement, rare for an enslaved person, allowed her to cultivate her talent and pursue her passion for writing. This supportive environment acted as a catalyst, turning a young enslaved girl into a published poet.

Religious Faith as a Source of Inspiration and Comfort

Religion played a central role in Wheatley’s life and work. Her poems frequently draw upon biblical themes, imagery, and language. This engagement with religious faith provided her with comfort, hope, and a framework for understanding the world. It also offered her a platform for expressing her beliefs and connecting with a broader audience.

Exploring Faith and Finding Solace

Her poems reflect a deep understanding of Christian theology. Through her writing, she found solace in her faith, drawing strength from biblical narratives and the promise of salvation. This religious perspective infused her work with a sense of hope, even in the face of immense suffering. The spiritual dimension of her poetry served as a powerful source of inspiration and a means of connecting with the divine.

The Pursuit of Intellectual Recognition and a Voice in Society

Wheatley’s desire for intellectual recognition was another key motivator. As an enslaved woman, she faced significant barriers to being taken seriously as a writer. Publishing her poems was an act of courage, a bold attempt to break down societal prejudices and claim her place in the literary world.

Challenging Prejudice and Seeking Validation

By writing and publishing her poems, Wheatley challenged the prevailing racist attitudes of her time. She demonstrated her intellectual capabilities and proved that enslaved people were capable of producing works of art. Her efforts to gain recognition were a testament to her resilience and her unwavering belief in her own abilities. This pursuit of validation was a crucial factor in her determination to write and publish.

Wheatley’s poems also grapple with the complexities of her identity as an enslaved African woman in colonial America. She navigated the tension between her African heritage, her Christian faith, and her adopted American identity. Her writing reflects this internal struggle and her search for belonging in a society that often denied her humanity.

Reconciling Multiple Identities

Her poems explore themes of race, freedom, and belonging. She challenged the racial prejudices of her time, asserting her right to be seen as a human being. Through her writing, she sought to reconcile her multiple identities and find a sense of place in a world that often marginalized her. This complex exploration of identity is a significant dimension of her poetic motivations.

The Power of Literary Conventions and Influences

Wheatley’s writing was deeply influenced by the literary conventions of her time. She drew inspiration from classical poets like Homer and Virgil, as well as from English writers such as Alexander Pope. Understanding these influences helps us appreciate the stylistic choices she made and the literary landscape in which she operated.

Mastering the Art of Poetic Expression

Her poems reflect a mastery of poetic forms and techniques. She employed metaphors, similes, and other literary devices to convey her ideas and emotions. Her engagement with these conventions demonstrates her commitment to the craft of poetry and her desire to create works of enduring artistic value. This pursuit of excellence was key to her motivation.

Examining Specific Poems: Case Studies of Motivation

Analyzing specific poems offers concrete insights into her motivations. For example, poems like “On Being Brought from Africa to America” and those dedicated to George Washington reveal her perspectives on slavery, freedom, and patriotism.

Unpacking the Meaning Behind the Words

Careful examination of her poems allows us to uncover her subtle critiques of slavery, her expressions of faith, and her hopes for the future. These individual works provide windows into her mind and reveal the driving forces behind her creative endeavors.

The Legacy of Phillis Wheatley: Inspiring Generations

Phillis Wheatley’s legacy extends far beyond her own lifetime. She paved the way for future African American writers and continues to inspire readers with her resilience, intelligence, and poetic artistry. Her work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of voice, agency, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

A Lasting Impact on Literature and Beyond

Her poems have been studied and celebrated for centuries, influencing countless writers and shaping the course of American literature. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education, perseverance, and the pursuit of knowledge. Her legacy continues to inspire us to fight for justice, equality, and the right to be heard.

The Ongoing Debate: Understanding the Nuances

While this article offers a comprehensive overview, it’s important to acknowledge the ongoing debates surrounding Wheatley’s work. Some scholars have questioned her willingness to accommodate certain societal expectations. However, her achievements remain undeniable, and her influence on the literary landscape is undeniable.

Addressing the Complexities of Historical Interpretation

Understanding the complexities of her life and work requires careful consideration of the historical context and the diverse perspectives on her writing. This nuanced approach allows us to appreciate the depth and significance of her poetry while acknowledging the challenges she faced.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Did Phillis Wheatley ever achieve her freedom? Yes, although the exact date is debated, she was manumitted (freed) by the Wheatley family.
  • What impact did her poems have on the abolitionist movement? Her poems contributed to the movement by humanizing enslaved people and challenging prevailing racist stereotypes.
  • How did Wheatley’s style of writing differ from other poets of her time? Wheatley’s style, while influenced by classical and English poets, often incorporated themes of race and identity unique to her experience.
  • What were the biggest challenges Phillis Wheatley faced as a writer? The biggest challenges were societal prejudices against enslaved people and the lack of opportunities for women in the literary world.
  • Why is Phillis Wheatley still studied today? She remains an important figure due to her pioneering role as the first published African American woman poet, and for the themes of identity, faith, and resilience explored in her work.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Words

In conclusion, the motivations behind Phillis Wheatley’s poetry were multifaceted and deeply intertwined with her life experiences. Driven by the harsh realities of enslavement, the support of the Wheatley family, her religious faith, and a desire for intellectual recognition, she crafted a body of work that continues to resonate with readers today. Her poems served as a voice against oppression, a testament to her resilience, and a powerful assertion of her humanity. Through her writing, she challenged societal norms, explored complex themes of identity, and left an indelible mark on American literature. Her legacy reminds us of the enduring power of words to inspire, challenge, and transform the world.