Langston Hughes: Exploring Themes of Identity and Humanity

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Updated: Dec 07, 2024
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2021/05/24
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Harlem's heart beat through Hughes's pen from 1902 to 1967, each word a pulse of Black culture. He was not only a prominent voice in African American literature but also one of the early innovators of jazz poetry. This essay will explore three of Hughes's notable poems: "Night Funeral in Harlem," "Let America Be America Again," and "I, Too." The analysis will determine whether these poems focus primarily on the unique experiences of African Americans or highlight the universal bonds of humanity shared between African Americans and other racial groups.

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Understanding how to cite poems in an essay is crucial for academic discussions, as it helps contextualize the analysis by referencing specific lines or stanzas.

Night Funeral in Harlem

"Night Funeral in Harlem" vividly captures the solemnity and simplicity of a young boy's funeral. The poem sets a somber tone as it describes a gathering attended by close friends, a girlfriend, and an elderly preacher. The narrator, an observer of the funeral, reflects on the poignant details of the ceremony, such as the presence of fine cars and a satin coffin, which seem incongruent with the boy's impoverished life. The concluding lines reveal that despite the boy's poverty, he was deeply cherished by those present at his funeral: "That boy that they was mournin’ / Was so dear, so dear / To them folks that brought the flowers, / To that girl who paid the preacher man."

The poem is likely set in the 1930s, a period marked by heightened racial tensions and economic struggles for African Americans in Harlem. The narrative subtly critiques the social conditions that led to the boy's untimely death, possibly at the hands of the police. This poem primarily focuses on the unique experiences of African Americans, highlighting themes of poverty, community, and resilience. By illustrating the communal bonds and shared sorrows within the African American community, Hughes underscores the deep connections that persist despite systemic adversity.

Let America Be America Again

In "Let America Be America Again," Hughes addresses a broader theme, examining the disillusionment of those who immigrated to America seeking freedom and prosperity. The poem's mood is somber, as Hughes writes from the perspective of diverse characters, including African Americans, poor whites, Native Americans, and European immigrants. This collective voice reveals the shared struggles of these groups: "I am the poor white, fooled and pushed apart, / I am the Negro bearing slavery’s scars, / I am the red man driven from the land, / And I am the immigrant clutching the hope I seek."

The poem critiques the myth of the American Dream, emphasizing the common bonds of suffering experienced by all these marginalized groups. Through this universal perspective, Hughes advocates for an America that fulfills its promise of liberty and equality for all its inhabitants. The poem is set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, reflecting the end of slavery and the waves of immigration from Europe. Hughes effectively uses these historical contexts to highlight the collective yearning for freedom and justice, reinforcing the idea that the quest for true equality is a shared human experience.

I, Too

"I, Too" explores the transformation of African American identity and the fight for recognition and equality. The poem’s narrator, an African American, asserts his rightful place in American society with the line, "I, too, sing America." The setting is during the age of slavery, as indicated by the narrator's present-tense description of being sent to eat in the kitchen when company comes. Despite this discrimination, the narrator remains optimistic: "But I laugh, / And eat well, / And grow strong."

The poem’s rhythm is steady, reflecting a sense of determination and hope. The narrator envisions a future where he will no longer be marginalized: "Tomorrow, / I’ll be at the table / When company comes. / Nobody’ll dare / Say to me, / 'Eat in the kitchen,' / Then." This optimistic tone conveys the belief in eventual acceptance and equality. "I, Too" focuses on the unique experiences of African Americans, emphasizing their inherent dignity and beauty. Hughes uses this poem to assert that African Americans are an integral part of America, and their contributions should be recognized and valued.

Conclusion

The poems "Night Funeral in Harlem," "Let America Be America Again," and "I, Too" collectively illustrate Langston Hughes's exploration of African American experiences and the broader themes of shared humanity. "Night Funeral in Harlem" poignantly captures the communal bonds within the African American community, while "Let America Be America Again" expands the focus to include the collective struggles of various marginalized groups. "I, Too" asserts the rightful place of African Americans in American society, emphasizing dignity and hope for the future. By addressing both the unique challenges faced by African Americans and the common aspirations of all oppressed peoples, Hughes’s poetry remains a powerful commentary on identity, resilience, and the pursuit of equality. Understanding how to cite poems in an essay enriches this analysis, allowing for precise engagement with Hughes's work.

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Langston Hughes: Exploring Themes of Identity and Humanity. (2021, May 24). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/langston-hughes-poetry-essay/