Who are the people that influenced Lucille Clifton?

Lucille Clifton was influenced by a variety of figures, including her family, particularly her mother, who instilled a love for language and storytelling. She was also inspired by the works of poets like Gwendolyn Brooks and Langston Hughes, whose themes of Black identity and resilience resonated with her own experiences. Additionally, her engagement with the Civil Rights Movement and African American culture shaped her poetic voice, emphasizing the strength and beauty of Black life. Clifton's personal experiences and her community also played a crucial role in shaping her powerful and poignant writing.