New Delhi, May 29 (IANS): Celebrities, activists and fans from across the world Thursday took to Twitter to remember legendary American author and poet Maya Angelou, who died Tuesday at age 86.
One of the most famous African-American writers to emerge in the 20th century, Angelou was a poet, playwright, and great orator. She rose from a childhood of poverty in Arkansas to become an American literary icon who was best-known for her first book "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" that told the story of her life up to the age of 17.
She died peacefully at her home in North Carolina, in the US. As the news of her death broke, netizens took to Twitter to remember her strong writings and shared her popular quotes.
Model-turned-actress Lisa Ray tweeted: "RIP to one of my idols, the Mistress of language and life, Maya Angelou."
Singer-actress Suchitra Krishnamurthy wrote on her Twitter handle: "How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes! Maya Angelou."
American rapper, singer and songwriter, Will.a.am, best known as one of the members of the popular band "The Black Eyed Peas" tweeted: "An American inspiration, American icon & American freedom fighter MayaAngelou will always be remembered and treasured."
Arizona-based Dolly tweeted: "I didn't properly mourn Maya Angelou's death yesterday and I feel like I am gonna cry now because I am very sad."
One Marissa Guzman wrote: "MayaAngelou is one of the most articulate, poetic, influential women of all time. May her sweet soul RIP."
Gifted with a majestic voice, Angelou was tall and shared warn and deep friendship with human rights activist Malcolm X, South African anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela and the reverend Martin Luther King, Jr.
Angelou also had an influence on American talk show host Oprah Winfrey.
Amid this din, there were some who wondered if all the people tweeting had read even a single poem or book of Angelou who had written several cookbooks, children's stories and poetry.
Delhi-based Vardan Singh wrote: "Wondering if all the people quoting Maya Angelou have actually read anything of hers before now?"