The news of Nikki Giovanni’s death has left fans and literary enthusiasts in shock. Known as a celebrated poet and activist who championed Black Joy, Giovanni’s life and legacy inspired millions. As the world mourns her passing, many are curious about the circumstances surrounding her death and her lasting impact.
Here is everything you need to know about the renowned poet and her impactful works.
Nikki Giovanni passes away at 81, claims report
On Monday, December 9, 2024, Nikki Giovanni passed away at the age of 81 in a hospital due to complications from lung cancer. Her wife, Virginia C. Fowler, confirmed that Giovanni’s deteriorating health had been linked to her battle with the disease. (via New York Times)
Born on June 7, 1943, Giovanni hailed from Knoxville, Tennessee. She pursued a degree in history from Fisk University where she published her essay on gender questions. Following, her grandmother, Louvenia Watson’s tragic death, Giovanni found peace in writing poems. Further, she studied master’s degree in social work from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Work and a fine arts education from Columbia University School of the Arts.
During her time at Columbia University, Giovanni published her poems Black Feeling, Black Talk. She also actively supported the Black Arts Movement during the late 1960s. Nikki Giovanni’s work celebrated the Black Joy with her being called Poet of the Black Revolution.
Giovanni’s popular poems include Re: Creation, My House, Cotton Candy on a Rainy Day, The Selected Poems of Nikki Giovanni, and others. She is also known for her books for children like Spin a Soft Black Song, Vacation Time: Poems for Children, and The Sun Is So Quiet to name a few. Her love for poetry also inspired her towards music with her poetry album, The Nikki Giovanni Poetry Collection emerging as a Grammy Nominee.
Throughout her career, Nikki Giovanni has received numerous awards for her exceptional work including several NAACP Image Awards. Her passing marks a monumental loss to the world of literature and poetry.
