Gather Together in My Name

Gather Together in My Name: A Journey Through the Life of Maya Angelou

Imagine stepping into a memoir that not only chronicles the life of a young woman but also serves as a powerful testament to resilience and self-discovery. Gather Together in My Name, published in 1974, is such a narrative. Written by the renowned poet and author Maya Angelou, this book follows Rita, a young Black woman navigating the tumultuous years from age 17 to 19.

The Title’s Meaning: A Call for Unity

But what does Gather Together in My Name mean? The title itself is a profound metaphor, drawing from Matthew 18:19-20. It suggests that individual struggles can be overcome when people unite and support each other. This idea resonates deeply with Angelou’s narrative, where Rita faces numerous challenges but ultimately finds strength in her journey.

From Caged Bird to Gathered Together

Gather Together in My Name was written three years after I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Angelou’s first autobiography. While it may not have received as much critical acclaim, it is still a remarkable piece of literature. The book delves into themes of self-discovery, narcissism, and the struggles faced by Black women in a predominantly white society.

Self-Discovery Amidst Racism

Rita’s life is a tapestry woven with threads of motherhood, family, racism, education, and literacy. She faces numerous challenges, including becoming an absentee manager for lesbian prostitutes, attending the Army despite being rejected due to her past activism, and falling in love with a gambler who introduces her to prostitution. These experiences shape Rita’s identity and contribute to her self-discovery.

Emotional Reunions and Life’s Assaults

The narrative culminates in an emotional reunion when Rita finds her son after realizing she had been taken advantage of. This moment is bittersweet, as it marks both a victory and a defeat. ‘For the first time I sat down defenseless to await life’s next assault,’ Rita reflects, highlighting the cyclical nature of her struggles.

Rejection of Drug Addiction

The book ends with an encounter that galvanizes Rita to reject drug addiction and make something of her life. This pivotal moment serves as a turning point, symbolizing Rita’s determination to overcome the adversities she has faced.

Motherhood and Family Issues

Throughout the book, motherhood and family issues are central themes. Rita’s relationship with her own mother, Vivian Baxter, becomes more significant as she attempts to make a living while raising her son. Angelou’s portrayal of these relationships adds depth to the narrative, illustrating the complexities of familial bonds.

Exploring Race and Racism

The book also delves into the theme of race and racism. It begins with a prolog describing the confusion and disillusionment of the African-American community during World War II, mirroring Rita’s alienated and fragmented life. Angelou demonstrates that she had to move on in her fight against racism, highlighting the resilience required to overcome such challenges.

Identity and Narcissism

A key aspect of Gather Together in My Name is its exploration of identity and narcissism. Author Hilton Als states that Angelou ‘replaces the language of social history with the language of therapy.’ Much of Angelou’s writing in this book is reactive, not reflective, and demonstrates Rita’s narcissism by dropping conventional autobiography forms.

Critical Reception

The volume received mostly positive reviews. Critics praised its writing style and consistent flow but noted that the narrative structure was disjointed or bizarre due to its episodic nature. While some saw it as lacking in complexity, others argued that the book’s structure and style are complex and effective in conveying emotion and insight.

Conclusion

In Gather Together in My Name, Maya Angelou crafts a narrative of resilience, self-discovery, and overcoming adversity. Through Rita’s journey, she explores the multifaceted challenges faced by Black women in a society marked by racism and inequality. This memoir is not just a story but a powerful testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth and transformation.