In Still I Rise, which technique is prominently used to convey empowerment?

• A. Metaphor
• B. Repetition
• C. Imagery
• D. Symbolism

Answer: (B)

Repetition is the key technique, used here to powerfully convey empowerment. Throughout the poem, the speaker keeps returning to the same bold refrain—“I rise”—placing it at the heart of each stanza. This continuous recitation creates a rising, chant-like rhythm that mirrors the act of overcoming oppression. Each repetition reinforces the message that no matter what is faced, the speaker will persist, building momentum and a collective sense of strength for both the speaker and the reader.

While imagery, metaphor, and symbolism appear in the poem to illuminate struggle and dignity, they don’t drive the empowering effect as strongly as the repeated declaration does. The repeated lines transform resilience into an anthem, making empowerment feel inevitable and unyielding.