“The“b” word and the “n” word are like poison, whether you take poison from a vial or pour it into Bavarian crystal, it is still poison.”
Explore This Quote Further
Maya Angelou on the Power of Words
"The “b” word and the “n” word are like poison, whether you take poison from a vial or pour it into Bavarian crystal, it is still poison." -- Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou on the Power of Hurtful Words
In this quote by Maya Angelou, she compares the words "bitch" and "n**r" to poison. Regardless of how beautifully they may be said or the context in which they are used, they still have the power to harm and hurt. Angelou's analogy of poison being poured into Bavarian crystal highlights the idea that just because something may appear elegant or refined on the surface, it can still have destructive qualities. This quote emphasizes the importance of being mindful of the words we use and the impact they can have on others.
The Impact of Hurtful Words
Maya Angelou's quote about the power of hurtful words such as the "b" word and the "n" word holds a timeless relevance in today's society. Just like poison, these derogatory terms have the ability to cause harm and spread negativity regardless of their packaging or context.
Reflection Questions
Maya Angelou's comparison of derogatory words to poison highlights the harm they can cause regardless of how they are delivered. Consider the following questions to reflect on the power of language and the impact of hurtful words:
In what ways do derogatory words like the "b" word and the "n" word poison relationships and communities?
How do these words perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to systemic inequalities?
Have you ever witnessed or experienced the negative effects of derogatory language? How did it make you feel?
What can individuals do to combat the use of hurtful language and promote a culture of respect and understanding?
How can we educate others on the impact of derogatory words and encourage more thoughtful and inclusive communication?
These questions are designed to provoke deeper thought and insight into the harmful effects of derogatory language in our society.
Similar quotes
“You dwell in whitened castles with deep and poisoned moats and cannot hear the curses which fill your children's throats.”
“You may shoot me with your words, you may cut me with your eyes, you may kill me with your hatefulness, but still, like air, I'll rise!”
“Did you want to see me broken?Bowed head and lowered eyes?Shoulders falling down like teardrops.Weakened by my soulful cries.You may shoot me with your words,You may cut me with your eyes,You may kill me with your hatefulness,But still, like air, I’ll rise.”
“Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with shades of deeper meaning.”
“Words are things. You must be careful, careful about calling people out of their names, using racial pejoratives and sexual pejoratives and all that ignorance. Don’t do that. Some day we’ll be able to measure the power of words. I think they are things. They get on the walls. They get in your wallpaper. They get in your rugs, in your upholstery, and your clothes, and finally in to you.”
“The charitable say in effect, 'I seem to have more than I need and you seem to have less than you need. I would like to share my excess with you.' Fine, if my excess is tangible, money or goods, and fine if not, for I learned that to be charitable with gestures and words can bring enormous joy and repair injured feelings.”