Meaning: The quote "If I could come back as anything - I'd be a bird, first, but definitely the command key is my second choice" by Nikki Giovanni is a playful and thought-provoking reflection on the possibilities of existence and the power of agency. Nikki Giovanni, an influential poet, writer, and activist, is known for her powerful and often introspective poetry that explores themes of identity, social justice, and the human experience.

In this particular quote, Giovanni expresses a desire for a different form of existence, one that allows for freedom, mobility, and influence. The choice of a bird as the first preference reflects a longing for the ability to soar above the constraints of earthly life, to experience the world from a different perspective, and to move with grace and agility. Birds are often seen as symbols of freedom, transcendence, and spiritual elevation, and Giovanni's wish to embody these qualities speaks to a fundamental human yearning for liberation and expansion.

The second part of the quote, where Giovanni humorously mentions the command key as her second choice, introduces a surprising and modern twist to the contemplation of reincarnation. The command key, a key found on computer keyboards that is used to execute commands and shortcuts, represents a symbol of control, efficiency, and power in the digital age. By playfully suggesting the command key as an alternative form of existence, Giovanni not only demonstrates her wit and imagination but also offers a clever commentary on the ways in which technology and innovation have become integral parts of our lives and identities.

The juxtaposition of these two choices – a bird and the command key – prompts the reader to consider the different dimensions of freedom, agency, and influence. While the bird represents a natural and organic form of freedom, the command key symbolizes a more abstract and mediated form of control and authority. Giovanni's playful juxtaposition of these two vastly different options invites us to question our own desires for freedom and influence, as well as the ways in which our aspirations are shaped by the world around us.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection on the fluidity of identity and the endless possibilities for self-reinvention. By expressing a willingness to return as something entirely different in a hypothetical future existence, Giovanni hints at the idea that our identities are not fixed or predetermined. Instead, they are malleable and subject to our own desires and imaginations. This sentiment aligns with Giovanni's broader body of work, which often explores the complexities of personal identity and the potential for growth and transformation.

In conclusion, Nikki Giovanni's quote "If I could come back as anything - I'd be a bird, first, but definitely the command key is my second choice" offers a playful and thought-provoking meditation on the themes of freedom, agency, and identity. Through her imaginative and unexpected choices, Giovanni challenges us to reconsider our own aspirations and the ways in which we define and pursue liberation and influence in our lives.