Poem Analysis - Man Bigot

A Stark Indictment

Maya Angelou's "Man Bigot" is a short, sharp, and unflinching condemnation of bigotry. The poem employs a direct and forceful tone, leaving little room for ambiguity. It begins with a harsh judgment and escalates to an even more scathing critique, suggesting that bigotry is not merely an individual failing but a deeply ingrained societal issue, potentially perpetuated by both men and women. The poem's brevity amplifies its impact, delivering a potent message with remarkable efficiency.

The Sins of Prejudice

One of the primary themes explored in "Man Bigot" is the destructive nature of prejudice. The opening lines present the "man who is a bigot" as "the worst thing God has got," a powerful statement that equates bigotry with the ultimate evil. This stark pronouncement immediately establishes the poem's stance against intolerance. The poem suggests that bigotry is not a minor flaw but a fundamental corruption of the human spirit, a betrayal of divine principles. This extreme language emphasizes the severity of the issue in Angelou's eyes.

Shared Responsibility

Another key theme is the idea of shared responsibility in perpetuating bigotry. The introduction of the "woman, who really is Ms. Begot" shifts the focus from individual culpability to a broader societal problem. The word "Begot" carries religious connotations, hinting at creation and origin. By labeling the woman as "Ms. Begot," Angelou suggests that women might also be complicit in fostering and passing down bigoted beliefs, either consciously or unconsciously. This adds a layer of complexity to the poem, moving beyond simple blame to a more nuanced understanding of how prejudice is sustained.

Imagery of Degradation

The poem's most striking imagery lies in its blunt language and the implied comparison of bigots to something inherently abhorrent. The phrase "the worst thing God has got" is a powerful negative comparison, suggesting that the bigot is a stain on creation. This imagery of degradation is further reinforced by the use of "Ms. Begot," which, while seemingly straightforward, carries a subtle undercurrent of negativity. The word "Begot," connected to creation, when linked to bigotry, implies that the act of creating or birthing can also, tragically, give rise to prejudice. The poem refrains from employing complex metaphors, and this simplicity makes the condemnation all the more forceful.

A Call for Introspection

In conclusion, "Man Bigot" is a forceful and concise condemnation of prejudice. Through its direct language, the poem indicts both men and women for their potential roles in perpetuating bigotry. Angelou's use of strong imagery and negative comparisons drives home the severity of the issue. The poem ultimately serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of prejudice and a call for introspection on the part of individuals and society as a whole. The poem asks us to consider not just the actions of individuals filled with hate, but the ways in which bigotry may be subtly reinforced within our own communities and families.