Tone: Hopeful and encouraging
In "All You Got to Do," Nikki Giovanni creates a mood of reflection and somberness by reflecting on the historical struggles of Black people in America and the challenges they continue to face. She uses vivid imagery and language to paint a picture of the hardships that Black people have endured, including the brutality of slavery, the injustice of segregation, and the ongoing discrimination and racism that persist in society. The tone of the poem, however, is one of hope and encouragement, as Giovanni urges her readers to remember the strength and resilience of Black people and to continue fighting for justice and equality. She emphasizes that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Black people have always found ways to persevere and thrive, and she challenges them to continue the fight for a better future.