The Language of Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes was an African-American poet, playwright and novelist who wrote most of his work during the Harlem Renaissance. He was well known for his musings on African-American culture and struggles throughout history. The poem “A Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes” is a powerful reflection of how society suppresses the hopes and dreams of African-Americans. In the poem, Hughes speaks of a state of suspended dreams that can occur due to a variety of factors – poverty, racism, isolation, etc. The poem is filled with powerful imagery, which makes it popular for teachers and students studying African-American culture.
The poem is made up of eight lines and begins with the iconic line, “What happens to a dream deferred?” As the poem continues, Hughes paints a vivid picture of what a dream deferred looks like. He speaks of a raisin in the sun that has been left out in the sun too long, a heavy load that burdens the dreamer, and a sore that erupts when the dream is put off. All of these images are meant to emphasize how a dream deferred can manifest itself and how powerful it can be on the psyche of an individual. Hughes’ imagery has been successful in capturing the feelings of dread and disappointment that one can experience when a dream is put on the back burner.
Using the Poem in the Classroom
Teachers can use this poem in the classroom to help students understand the power of words and how they can be used to convey feelings and emotions. The powerful imagery in the poem can also help students better understand the struggles many African-Americans have faced in the past. Worksheets are a great resource for teachers to help students practice their understanding of the poem as well as helping to prepare students for tests and quizzes. For example, a “A Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes Worksheet” could include a variety of activities such as analyzing the poem, responding to the poem in writing, and comparing it to other works by Hughes. It is a great tool for helping students better understand the poem in a deeper level.
Themes
Though the poem is straightforward, it speaks volumes about the feelings of oppression and injustice. Hughes implies that when dreams are deferred, it can lead to depression, anger, and loss of hope. This poem speaks to the power of dreams and how they can be an inspiration to others and how they can propel someone forward even when society attempts to hold them back. Hughes also speaks to resilience in the poem as he mentions how dreams can still be achieved even when people face seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
The Legacy of Langston Hughes
In the decades since this poem was written, Langston Hughes’ work has been featured in a variety of books, films, and plays. He is one of the most widely read and cited poets in American history. His words have been an inspiration to many, both in the African-American community and beyond. The poem “A Dream Deferred” speaks to the power of dreams and how they can still be achieved even when society pushes back.
Conclusion
Langston Hughes’ poem, “A Dream Deferred” is one of his most widely studied works. The poem speaks to the power of dreams, the resilience of the human spirit and the struggle for freedom. The poem has been studied for generations and will remain an inspiring piece of literature for years to come.
