On the Pulse of Morning

poem by Angelou

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July 21, 2026

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"On the Pulse of Morning" is a poem by Maya Angelou that she delivered at the inauguration of U.S. President Bill Clinton in 1993. This made her the second poet in U.S. history to read at a presidential inauguration, following Robert Frost. The poem explores themes of resilience and the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, urging listeners to embrace change and move forward together. Angelou, an acclaimed poet, memoirist, and actress, is also widely known for her powerful autobiographical work, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings".

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Maya Angelou
Activism and honors
…and deliver a poem, “On the Pulse of Morning,” for the inauguration of U.S. Pres. Bill Clinton in 1993. She was the second poet in U.S. history to deliver an inaugural poem (the first being Robert Frost at John F. Kennedy’s inauguration in 1961). She celebrated the 50th anniversary…
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…and deliver a poem, “On the Pulse of Morning,” for the inauguration of U.S. Pres. Bill Clinton in 1993. She was the second poet in U.S. history to deliver an inaugural poem (the first being Robert Frost at John F. Kennedy’s inauguration in 1961). She celebrated the 50th anniversary…
Read More