Rita Dove's writing journey is defined by her commitment to exploring identity, history, and diversity. As a celebrated poet and novelist, she draws upon her experiences as a Black woman in America to illuminate issues of race, gender, and class. Dove’s upbringing in a supportive yet racially segregated community instilled in her a desire to challenge societal norms through literature. Her poetry often reflects the interconnectedness of personal and collective narratives. Additionally, her tenure as a United States Poet Laureate emphasized her belief in the transformative power of words.