Theme is one of the most important components of any literary work. Langston Hughes’ “Harlem” is an iconic poem that shows the poet’s exploration into the representation of African American experiences during the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s. Understanding the theme of this powerful poem is key to appreciating the depth and meaning of the text.
The primary theme of Hughes’ poem is that of deferred dreams and hopes. This can be seen in the poem’s famous opening lines: “What happens to a dream deferred? / Does it dry up / like a raisin in the sun?” The second line of the poem introduces the idea of dreams being “deferred,” a term that refers to the struggles and obstacles that African Americans faced in pursuing their aspirations. Hughes also speaks of a “dream” that is due for fulfilment, where the speaker is unsure as to whether it will eventually take shape and become a reality. This dream is juxtaposed against the difficulties that African Americans faced in achieving their hopes and ambitions due to racial and social discrimination. This establishes a key theme of the poem, which is that of racial oppression and adversity.
Another key theme of “Harlem” is that of racial equality. According to literature scholar Mark McWatt, Hughes was keenly aware of the injustices faced by African Americans and “Harlem” is a call to action against this oppression. The poem speaks of many forms of oppression, such as injustice, poverty, and disempowerment, in order to raise awareness and provoke direct action. Throughout the poem, Hughes frequently uses words that depict a society that is unjust and oppressive, a society where African Americans struggle to realise their aspirations due to discrimination.
In addition to these two primary themes, “Harlem” also addresses the idea of pride and joy within the African American community. Despite the difficulties that African Americans faced in achieving their goals, the poem speaks of being “strong” and being a “super-man”. These lines emphasise the importance of resilience and hope in the African American community. The poem dialogues with the struggle of white society’s view of African Americans and instead speaks of the empowerment and agency of the African American community to persevere, despite the obstacles they encounter.
The final theme in “Harlem” is that of power and resistance. Hughes expresses his frustration at those in power who prevent African Americans from achieving their dreams. He also speaks of hope, and sees hope as a form of power and a tool to fight against oppression. By talking about his dreams and the obstacles he has faced, Hughes establishes a link between his own experiences and those of other African Americans, thereby becoming the collective voice of a hopeful, strong, and unified community.
Langston Hughes’ Voice
Langston Hughes was an influential African American poet, playwright and novelist who played an important role in the Harlem Renaissance. He wrote novels and short stories in the early 1920s that spoke of the issues facing African Americans, and “Harlem” is no different. Hughes’ voice is present throughout the poem, as he speaks of his own struggles and the struggles of all African Americans. In addition to being a poem, the lyrics to “Harlem” act as a type of call for action for African Americans to take a stand against injustice.
The use of poetic devices, such as metaphor and alliteration, are also present throughout the poem. For example, Hughes speaks of “a dream deferred”, referring to the obstacles African Americans face in achieving their dreams. This metaphor is used to emphasise the importance of persisting in the face of difficulty and staying hopeful, despite the odds. Similarly, he speaks of “the heavy load” of racism, poverty and discrimination that African Americans must face. This imagery of carrying a heavy load also serves to evoke feelings of struggle and endurance in the face of adversity.
The language used in “Harlem” conveys strong emotions of despair, hope, and resilience. By using simple language to express complex ideas, Hughes ultimately makes his poem easily accessible to all readers, regardless of their background or experience. Furthermore, he speaks of the dreams and ambitions of African Americans, therefore placing his poem firmly within the context of the African American experience.
Conclusion
Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem” is widely admired and studied today. With its timeless themes of deferred dreams, racial equality, and resilience, it is no surprise that the poem remains one of the most important works of African American literature. Hughes’ use of literary devices and powerful language make the poem incredibly effective in conveying its messages, making it an important source of inspiration and motivation for many African Americans.
Community Building
Hughes was very much interested in being part of the community-building process, providing inspiring words and encouraging people of color to stand up and lead. His poem “Harlem” was a call to action to rise up against racial and social oppression, and to continue fighting despite the odds. Hughes collaborated with other African American poets and artists to bring about change in the community. He was part of a number of social initiatives that aimed to revolutionize African American culture.
Apart from his writing, Hughes also used his platform as a poet to speak publicly about discrimination and racism. He was an advocate of the Civil Rights Movement and spoke out against the movements of violence and brutality that African Americans faced. He also championed cultural events and activities, such as jazz concerts and art exhibitions, in the African American community. These efforts greatly contributed to the Harlem Renaissance and provided African Americans with a platform to voice their concerns and speak out against discrimination.
In “Harlem”, Hughes speaks directly to his audience, highlighting the importance of standing up for yourself and refusing to succumb to the oppression or racism of white society. By inviting people to share in his experiences and emotions, Hughes was able to create a powerful personal connection with his readers that was rooted in his commitment to the African American community.
The Legacy of Langston Hughes
The legacy of Langston Hughes lives on in his poem “Harlem”. His commitment to promoting African American rights and fighting against injustice has had a lasting impact, inspiring generations of African Americans to follow in his footsteps and demand a better, more just world. “Harlem” has become an iconic work of African American literature that speaks of the struggles and hopes of African Americans, both past and present. It is a timeless and powerful poem that will continue to shape the African American experience for years to come.
Legacy of the Harlem Renaissance
The Harlem Renaissance was an important period in US history, marked by the emergence of African American art, literature, and music in the 1920s. During this time, African Americans sought to reclaim their identities and the dignity they had lost. Hughes was determined to use his work to bridge the gap between Whites and African Americans, and to allow African Americans to tell their stories in their own words. His influence and impact can be seen in the works of writers like Ralph Ellison, James Baldwin, and Zora Neal Hurston.
The legacy of the Harlem Renaissance is also evident in the modern interpretation of the movement. Young African Americans continue to draw inspiration from their predecessors of the Harlem Renaissance, seeking to reclaim their identities and create art and literature that speaks to the African American experience. Through the works of Langston Hughes, African Americans have been given permission to chase their dreams and to fight for racial and social equality.
Interpretation of Harlem
Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem” has been interpreted in a number of ways. The poem speaks of the obstacles African Americans faced in achieving their dreams, of their refusal to succumb to the oppression of White society, and of their hope in the face of adversity. For some, it is a powerful call to arms, a rallying cry against racial and social injustice. For others, it is a celebration of African American resilience, ambition, and courage. The poem can also be seen as a warning, a reminder of the effects of inequality and racism on a community.
The poem also speaks to the intense power of dreams, and the strength of the human spirit. As Hughes himself explains, “Harlem” is a poem of “strength and power”, a “call for the realization of dreams”. By focusing on themes of racial equality, justice, and resilience, the poem speaks to the need for African Americans to take action and fight for the rights and freedoms they deserve.
The interpretation of “Harlem” is something that every individual must determine for themselves. The poem offers many insights and interpretations, and is open to everyone’s own unique perspective. The poem is ultimately a powerful and timeless work of literature that speaks to the African American experience and the struggle for justice and equality.
