Anne Spencer, born Annie Bethel Bannister (February 6, 1882 – July 27, 1975), was a poet, teacher, librarian, gardener, and civil rights activist. In this sampling of poems by Anne Spencer, we experience her affinity for nature, love, and life itself.

Anne Spencer was a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance. Her literary career began as she was a student in Virginia Seminary with her first poem, “The Skeptic.” After creating this poem, she continued to write on any surface she could find to record her thoughts, including the walls of her home and random scraps of paper.

This talented poet and gardener was an outspoken advocate for women’s rights, civil rights, and granting the right of respect to everyone.

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