In the 20th century, when contemporary literature was emerging from 1960 to the present, it was seen as a product of the post-World War II situation. Yolande Cornelia “Nikki” Giovanni was born in Knoxville, Tennessee and raised in Lincoln Heights, an all-black suburb of Cincinnati. Giovanni is one of the most read American poets; her frankness in writing has brought her much recognition and prominence. Giovanni became the voice of many African Americans, her contribution to the literary period reflects the struggle for equality and the power one has to make a difference in oneself and in the lives of others. His writings reflect contemporary events and experiences in his life, as well as in the larger African American community. She can be quite controversial at times, but she becomes a respected speaker and reader and has maintained a prominent place as a strong voice in black society. Contemporary literature is a modern form of writing, born from the devastation of the Second World War. , characterized by unique features such as linguistic and stylistic features and thematic features. It is the product of the post-World War II situation. It was a time when “cynicism, frustration and disillusionment crept into the lives and minds of humanity after witnessing the damage caused by War” (“Contemporary”). People were pessimistic, embittered and failed to appreciate the glorious history, which marked the beginning of romantic and metaphysical works. Some of the linguistic and stylistic features consisted of free verse, juxtaposition or combination of ideas and themes, and extensive use of classical allusions. Contemporary poet, Nikki Giovanni, is famous for writing freeform...... middle of paper......ry of The World...The Definitive Guide to Love Poems Web, April 8, 2011.” Contemporary literature, Books on literature." World Map, Map of the World 2000. Web. April 8, 2011. Fowler, Virginia C. "Nikki Giovanni: Biography: Yolanda Cornelia "Nikki" Giovanni: Poet, Virginia Tech University Professor. 2003. Web. April 8, 2011. Jones, Dianne Rosena. "Nikki Giovanni—Revolutionary Poet - African American Literature - The Voice of Women." 2011. Web. 8 April 2011. Maria. "Analysis of Nikki-Rosa (293)." April 2011. Neal, Mark Anthony. "Hip Hop's Divine Parent Nikki Giovanni." Chicken Bones. Web. April 8, 2011. "Nikki Giovanni Review (Vol. 117)." study of literature, lesson plans and more. Network. 8 April 2011. Parks, "A Moment with Nikki Giovanni - Spokesperson 9 November 2001. 2011.