Nikki Giovanni, a renowned poet, author and Virginia Tech professor has passed away at 81.
One of Nikki’s friend and fellow writer Renée Watson announced. “The acclaimed poet and Black Arts Movement icon, who created wondrous poems included in children’s books, keynote stages, television shows, and over two dozen bestselling poetry collections, passed away on December 9, 2024, with her lifelong partner, Virginia (Ginney) Fowler, beside her”.
Giovanni, who earned worldwide appreciation for her literary work, was born on June 7, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee. She served as a Professor in Virginia Tech’s English Department.
Nikki was blessed with such writing skills that are rarely bestowed. For her excellent writing skills, Giovanni received numerous awards, including the 2024 Emmy for Exceptional Merit in Documentary Filmmaking for Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project.
Giovanni contributions to literature and activism were extraordinary. She formed close connections with influential figures like Aretha Franklin, Rosa Parks, James Baldwin and many other countless inspiring individuals.
Even after battling cancer twice, Giovanni continued her work. Her final poetry collection, The Last Book, is scheduled for publication in 2025.
This line “I hope I die warmed by the life that I tried to live,” from Giovanni many poems reflects on her life and her eventual passing.
