Heartfelt Love Poems by Black Poets 

By keely aouga

Black Love encompasses the beauty and nuances of the Black experience both externally and internally.

As you share your love for others and yourself, you might struggle to find the "right" words to encapsulate your feelings.

Black poets have been writing about the many feelings that come with love. Here are some of their most heartfelt words.

'Love Is'

Nikki Giovanni's poem Love Is was published in 1997 in her collection "Love Poems." Giovanni was a pillar during the Civil Rights Movement. 

'Touched by an Angel' 

Maya Angelou was an American memoirist, poet and civil rights activist. Her poem Touched by an Angel highlights the power of love. 

'Beauty That Is Never Old'

Beauty That Is Never Old is a poem written by James Weldon Johnson that touches on love's ability to provide strength to others. 

'Love Song For Lucinda' 

Love Songs for Lucinda is a poem written by Langston Hughes and published in 1926. Hughes is best known as a leader of the Harlem Renaissance.

'Facetime'

Clint Smith's Facetime highlights love's ability to transcend distance. Smith is also the author of two poetry collections, "Counting Descent" and "Above Ground."

'New Year Comes Twice a Year'

Kewayne Wadley's poem celebrates the love the poet has for their partner. Wadley is a Memphis-based poet known for his innovative approaches to describing love. 

'Black Love'

Black Love by Evie Shockley describes the interconnectedness of her Blackness and love as a way to depict self love. 

Uncover quotes from the late Nikki Giovanni below.

Nikki Giovanni Quotes