What Symbolic Elements Do You Find in the Poem of Langston Hughes
___ is a notable literary work by ___. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of ___.
Answer
What is symbolism? What symbolic elements do you find in Langston Hughes’s poem?
Symbolism is the use of words or images to symbolize specific concepts, people, objects, or events. Langston Hughes (1901-1967) uses symbolism extensively in his poetry to convey African Americans’ struggles, hopes, and identities. His symbols often reflect broader themes of racial oppression, resilience, and the quest for equality. Here are some symbolic elements found in Hughes’s poetry.
The Kitchen in “I, Too”: In the poem “I, Too” (1926), the kitchen symbolizes racial segregation and the marginalization of African Americans. The speaker is sent to the kitchen when the company comes. The poet says:
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
These lines represent how Black people were often excluded from mainstream society. However, the speaker’s strength and hope for the future show his belief in change. He imagines being “at the table,” symbolizing the fight for equality and ending racial barriers.
Deferred Dreams in “Harlem”: In “Harlem” (1951), Hughes uses various symbols to explore the idea of deferred dreams. He asks whether a dream deferred
Does it dry up
like a raisin in the sun?
Or
………..sags
like a heavy load.
These symbols reflect the frustration and decay that come from unfulfilled aspirations. The final question, “Or does it explode?” symbolizes the potential for social unrest and violence if these dreams are denied. The poem uses these symbols to capture the consequences of systemic racism on the aspirations of African Americans.
The Rivers: “The Negro Speaks of Rivers” (1921) uses rivers as a powerful symbol of the enduring strength and resilience of African Americans. The rivers mentioned in the poem—the Euphrates, the Congo, the Nile, and the Mississippi—symbolize Black culture and heritage’s deep and ancient roots. The poet says:
I’ve known rivers:
Ancient, dusky rivers.
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