An Analysis of Langston Hughes' Poems

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Langston Hughes Research Langston Hughes (1902-1967) is one of the most influential African-American writers of the 20th century. His poetry represented a significant chapter in American literature. He always wrote about the current events of what is happening to African-Americans in his time. It is because of his original poetry that engraved his name forever in not only African American history, but in American Literature as well. “Through his long career as a professional writer, Hughes remained true to the African American heritage he celebrated in his writings, which were frankly ”racial in theme and treatment, derived from the life I know” (1131 Meyer) . All of his poems inspiration comes from his life and experiences dealing with racism, segregation, and overall struggle for the average black man and woman. “I Too”, “motto”, and “High to Low” each explain their own stories of his struggles, and of others. Langston Hughes is one of the few that can write out his poems in a simplistic manner to paint a vivid picture of the struggles of African – American and also help give that sense of “You are not alone” feel. “I too” Is a poem that speaks about the racial times in America. Langston Hughes projects his voice through the writing by saying from beginning “I too, sing America” and at the end “I, too, am America”. “I am the darker brother” (2 Langston Hughes) speaks about the color of his skin and states that he is a tones darker than his white counterparts. The combination between of the two lines represents his standing in America, despite what is socially expected at the time period. “They send me to eat in the kitchen when company comes” (2-4 Langston Hughes) refers to the slave owner instructing them to eat away from “company” to avoid conflict with their prejudice and social standing. “But I laugh, And eat well, and grow strong” (5-7 Langston Hughes)
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