a dream deferred assignment

A Summary and Analysis of Langston Hughes’ ‘Harlem’ (Dream Deferred)

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

‘Harlem’ is a short poem by Langston Hughes (1901-67). Hughes was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance in New York in the 1920s. Over the course of a varied career he was a novelist, playwright, social activist, and journalist, but it is for his poetry that Hughes is now best-remembered.

Given his centrality to the Harlem Renaissance , it is perhaps unsurprising that Langston Hughes chose to write a poem about Harlem. But what is the meaning of his short 11-line lyric about Harlem? You can read the poem here .

‘Harlem’: summary

The poem is arranged into four stanzas: the first and last of these are just one line long, with the second comprising seven lines and the third two lines.

The speaker of the poem asks a series of questions. He asks first, what happens to a dream that is deferred – that is, a dream or ambition which is never realised? Does it try up like a raisin in the sun, shrivelling away and losing something of itself? Or does it grow putrid and infected, like a sore (on a body) from which pus runs? And does the dream come to smell like rotten meat?

He then wonders whether the dream might develop a tough ‘crust’ of sugar, like a boiled sweet.

In the third stanza, the speaker turns from the interrogative mode of questioning and muses aloud: perhaps instead of these things, the dream simply grows weak, like a heavy burden being carried.

The final stanza, another standalone line, is italicised for additional emphasis, and sees the speaker return to the interrogative mode: he asks whether this ‘dream deferred’ might actually end up exploding, such as in a fit of righteous anger or frustration.

‘Harlem’: analysis

One of Langston Hughes’ best-known poems, ‘ I, Too ’, is often categorised as a protest poem. But it is also a poem of celebration, and one of the things which a critic or student of Hughes’ poem needs to consider is how these two sides to the poem are kept in careful balance.

‘Harlem’ is more clearly and emphatically a poem of protest rather than celebration, focusing on the area of New York which had a large African-American population (and culture). In ‘I, Too’, Hughes took up Walt Whitman’s famous words from his nineteenth-century poem ‘ I Hear America Singing ’ and added his own voice to the chorus, and, by extension, the voices of all African Americans.

But in ‘Harlem’, he takes up the idea of the American Dream , the ideal, or belief, which states that anyone, regardless of their background, can make a success of their lives if they come to America. Is this really true of African Americans, or do they face too much prejudice and too many obstacles as they try to make their way in America?

The reference to ‘a dream deferred’ in the opening line of ‘Harlem’ alludes to the fact that this short poem is of a piece with a much longer, book-length poem which Hughes published in the same year, 1951. That longer work, Montage of a Dream Deferred , was influenced by the rhythms and styles of jazz music, as Hughes takes us on a 24-hour tour of Hughes’ own Harlem in New York.

The motif of the dream – a favourite Langston Hughes trope – is central to the poem, as Hughes plays off the real world with the ideal. But his ‘dream deferred’ is also recalling the American Dream, and critiquing the relevance of this ideal for African Americans.

The various images and similes Hughes employs in ‘Harlem’ reveal a conflicted attitude towards this dream. While other Americans can make their way up the socio-economic ladder and achieve success for themselves and their families, the speaker feels that African Americans are being left behind.

But the images are not all one and the same. We are given festering sores and rotten meat, but then the speaker proposes the sugared coating of a boiled sweet: altogether a more palatable image. So what is the purpose of this image?

We talk about ‘sugar-coating’ something to make it more palatable and acceptable, and therein lies the meaning of Hughes’ simile: black Americans are sold the idea of the ‘American Dream’ in order to keep them happy with the status quo and to give the illusion that everyone in the United States has equal opportunities. But that’s all it is: the sugar that covers up something less appealing or appetising, which is the rather less rosy truth.

Like many of Langston Hughes’ poems, ‘Harlem’ is written in free verse , its irregular line lengths and erratic rhythms suggestive of jazz music, which was so important to the culture and nightlife of Harlem. However, it is not wholly free verse, since Hughes does use rhyme: sun/run , meat/sweet , and load/explode (and note how ‘exp lode ’ contains, or carries, that ‘load’).

The final line of ‘Harlem’ suggests that if African Americans continue to endure the grinding poverty, mistreatment, and lack of opportunities they are currently enduring, their anger may burst out in an explosion of energy and rage.

In some ways, Hughes’s poem is prophetic in predicting the growing momentum that the American Civil Rights movement would gain as the 1950s progressed, and figures like Malcolm X would use radical anger (as opposed to the less combative approach adopted by Martin Luther King) to galvanise black Americans into demanding a better life.

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Harlem (A Dream Deferred)

By Langston Hughes

‘Harlem (A Dream Deferred)’ is a powerful poem by Langston Hughes, written in response to the challenges he faced as a black man in a white-dominated world. It questions the fate of deferred dreams among Harlem residents.

Langston Hughes

Nationality: American

Langston Hughes had a five-decade career.

Key Poem Information

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Central Message: When dreams are deferred or delayed, they can have a profound and often negative impact.

Themes: Celebration , Dreams , Identity

Speaker: The African American community

Emotions Evoked: Anger , Anxiety , Depression

Poetic Form: Free Verse

Time Period: 20th Century

Poem Analyzed by Allisa Corfman

Degree in Secondary Education/English and Teacher of World Literature and Composition

Hughes reached his prime in writing during the time of the Harlem Renaissance . This was a unique time period in American History in which many African American writers, artists, actors, and celebrities of various kinds emerged. It was a time in which, for the first time in history, African American people were able to reveal their true talent and intellect. The only problem was that African American artists, poets, novelists, and playwrights were only acknowledged within the community of African American people. As it was very clear that separate was not equal, Langston Hughes, along with a great many other up-and-comings of his time, wanted their work to be esteemed by the world, not only their own community.

Langston Hughes wrote ‘ Harlem (A Dream Deferred)’  in response to what he felt, having his own literary genius be kept segregated from that of his white counterparts. He wanted true equality to reign so that his works of literature might be recognized among all writers of his time, not just those in Harlem. This poem simply yet profoundly reveals his feelings. The poem’s biblical reference is used to draw his readers to his point of view .

Langston Hughes knew his ancestors waited many years and never did experience true equality, and he wondered whether or not he ever would. Even as highly esteemed a poet as he was in Harlem, it did not make up for the fact that much of the rest of his society would not acknowledge his work simply because of the color of his skin.

Years later, Martin Luther King Jr. made his speech , “ I have a Dream ,” which was likely inspired by this very poem. Hughes wrote this poem in 1951, and Martin Luther King Jr. gave his speech in 1963, just four short years before Hughes’ death.

Detailed Analysis

Hughes begins his poem with a question. “What happens to a dream deferred?” The word ‘deferred,’ in this context , means that it is put off or delayed indefinitely. This seems a simple question at first, but once in context, has significant connotations . His initial question would have been, to his audience , an obvious biblical reference. Proverbs 13:12  States,

Hope deferred makes the heart sick,      but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.

By starting his poem with this reference, the author immediately gains the support of professing Christians in his community, namely because they believed they could answer his question, at least in part. They could answer what happens  when  hope is deferred. They could answer that, according to the book of Proverbs, when one hopes or dreams for something, and it is deferred, it makes the heart sick. On the contrary, when a dream is fulfilled, it brings life and vitality.

Hughes is aware of the answers provided in this specific Proverb , but this poem gives more depth of insight into his specific dream and the result of his not having seen it fulfilled.

The question about raisins and the sun gives the readers vivid imagery of what he feels is happening to him as he has not yet seen his dream fulfilled.

This second question of ‘ Harlem (A Dream Deferred) ‘, relating to festering like a sore, paints a grotesque picture for the readers, one which can help them to strongly identify with the disgust Hughes feels. At the time he wrote this poem, the slaves had been free for nearly ninety years, and yet were still not treated as equals. This is his dream deferred. He compares his disappointment to a sore that festers and oozes, thoroughly giving his readers an understanding of the depths of his disgust.

His next question about how it smells suggests two possible endings for this dream deferred. The first is that, like a piece of meat left to rot, it would just continue to get worse and worse the longer their hope for equality was denied. The second option is that it would simply crust over. People would become used to living in a separate society and become comfortable living their own lives in their own separate communities.

In the next verse , the speaker offers his own view. It becomes clear that he does not believe this dream will “sugar over” and somehow become tolerable, perhaps even sweet. Rather, he gives his own suggestion that,

Maybe it just sags       like a heavy load.

This suggests that he feels the heavy weight of the many years he and his ancestors would wait for others to see them as equal. Hughes felt the heavy burden of this weight upon his shoulders. It had already been nearly ninety years since the African American people were freed and given rights as human beings. Yet, as they lived in separate communities, they were not treated as equals, and Hughes likened this to the feeling of going through life carrying a very heavy load.

The last line of this poem is written in italics, which causes the reader to pay extra close attention to the emphasis put on this final question. He asks,

Or does it explode?

With this final question, Hughes implies that one can only carry a heavy load for so long. He suggests that a festering sore…rotting meat, can only be tolerated for so long. He implies with this line that something is about to happen. It is clear that Hughes believes that the African American people cannot tolerate the way they have been treated in society for much longer. He clearly reveals that after years of tolerating mistreatment, he certainly feels like giving way to anger or exploding. And who wouldn’t? Although his life story reveals that he did not explode, but rather expressed not only his dissatisfaction with society but his intellect and literary genius in such a way as to prove wrong the discrimination that oppressed him and to pave the way for many others to follow in the pursuit of civil rights for African Americans.

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When was this posted? As in what was the date. Lovely analysis.

Jan 15th 2016 – thank you.

The new scent from DKNY?

Thank you a lot it helped me a ton

Excellent – we aim to please.

Paraphase of stanzas

I don’t understand the meaning of this comment. Is it a request? An accusation? Either way, I like that you have used language to create tension!

Great breakdown/analysis!

Thoughtful analysis.

why thank you.

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Corfman, Allisa. "Harlem (A Dream Deferred) by Langston Hughes". Poem Analysis , https://poemanalysis.com/langston-hughes/harlem-a-dream-deferred/ . Accessed 7 September 2024.

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Harlem Summary & Analysis by Langston Hughes

• Line-by-Line Explanation & Analysis
• Poetic Devices
• Vocabulary & References
• Form, Meter, & Rhyme Scheme
• Line-by-Line Explanations

Langston Hughes wrote “Harlem” in 1951 as part of a book-length sequence, Montage of a Dream Deferred . Inspired by blues and jazz music, Montage , which Hughes intended to be read as a single long poem, explores the lives and consciousness of the black community in Harlem, and the continuous experience of racial injustice within this community. “Harlem” considers the harm that is caused when the dream of racial equality is continuously delayed. Ultimately, the poem suggests, society will have to reckon with this dream, as the dreamers claim what is rightfully their own.

• Read the full text of “Harlem”

The Full Text of “Harlem”

“harlem” summary, “harlem” themes.

The Cost of Social Injustice

The Individual and the Community

Line-by-line explanation & analysis of “harlem”.

What happens to a dream deferred?

      Does it dry ... ...       And then run?

      Does it stink ... ... a syrupy sweet?

      Maybe it just ... ... does it explode?

“Harlem” Symbols

• Line 1: “dream”

“Harlem” Poetic Devices & Figurative Language

• Line 2: “Does it”
• Line 3: “like”
• Line 4: “Or”
• Line 6: “Does it”
• Line 7: “Or”
• Line 8: “ like”
• Line 10: “like”
• Line 11: “Or does it”
• Lines 9-10: “      Maybe it just sags /       like a heavy load.”
• Line 1: “dream,” “deferred”
• Line 2: “Does,” “dry”
• Line 3: “raisin,” “sun”
• Line 4: “fester,” “sore”
• Line 5: “run”
• Line 6: “it,” “stink,” “like,” “rotten,” “meat”
• Line 7: “Or,” “crust,” “sugar,” “over”
• Line 8: “like,” “syrupy,” “sweet”
• Line 9: “just,” “sags”
• Line 10: “like,” “load”
• Line 11: “Or ,” “does ,” “it ,” “explode”
• Line 2: “Does,” “it,” “dry,” “up”
• Line 3: “like,” “a,” “raisin,” “in,” “the,” “sun”
• Line 6: “Does,” “it,” “stink,” “meat”
• Line 8: “sweet”
• Line 10: “load”
• Line 11: “explode”

End-Stopped Line

• Line 1: “deferred?”
• Line 3: “sun?”
• Line 4: “sore—”
• Line 5: “run?”
• Line 6: “meat?”
• Line 7: “over—”
• Line 8: “sweet?”
• Line 10: “load.”
• Line 11: “explode?”

Parallelism

Rhetorical question.

• Lines 11-11
• Lines 2-3: “up /       like”
• Lines 9-10: “sags /       like ”

“Harlem” Vocabulary

Select any word below to get its definition in the context of the poem. The words are listed in the order in which they appear in the poem.

• (Location in poem: )

Form, Meter, & Rhyme Scheme of “Harlem”

Rhyme scheme, “harlem” speaker, “harlem” setting, literary and historical context of “harlem”, more “harlem” resources, external resources.

An Essay From the Poetry Foundation — Read more about "Harlem" in this essay by Scott Challener at the Poetry Foundation.

Letter from Martin Luther King, Jr. to Hughes — Read a letter from Martin Luther King, Kr. to Langston Hughes, which includes a reference to a performance of Lorraine Hansberry's play “A Raisin in the Sun."

"Harlem" Read Aloud by Langston Hughes — Listen to Langston Hughes read "Harlem."

Full Text of "The Negro Artist and the Racial Mountain" — Read Langston Hughes’s 1926 essay “The Negro Artist and the Racial Mountain."

The Harlem Renaissance — Learn more about the Harlem Renaissance from the History Channel.

Langston Hughes and Martin Luther King, Jr. — Read about how Langston Hughes influenced Martin Luther King, Jr., including the influence of "Harlem."

LitCharts on Other Poems by Langston Hughes

As I Grew Older

Aunt Sue's Stories

Daybreak in Alabama

Dream Variations

I Look at the World

Let America Be America Again

Mother to Son

Night Funeral in Harlem

The Ballad of the Landlord

Theme for English B

The Negro Speaks of Rivers

The Weary Blues

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A Dream Deferred (Poem) Analysis; Poem by Langston Hughes

Introduction.

The poem Harlem (A Dream Deferred) is written by African-American Poet Langston Hughes at the time of the Harlem Renaissance . The poet talks about a dream which is deferred or delayed.

The poem consists of 11 lines and is an open verse. Though the poem has no specific stanzas, I have divided it into two parts to make it easier for you to understand it.

Part 1: A Dream Deferred

The poem begins with a direct question,  What happens to a dream deferred? which is a poet’s direct question to probably Whites and his those belonging to his own race and even audience in general.

Thus the poet is trying to convey that like all these things a dream if delayed can also suffer.

Part 2: Hope and Hopelessness

The poet shifts from rhetorical questions to a declarative statement. The  Dream Deferred   is now like a heavy and immovable load which symbolizes a sense of hopelessness.

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Unpacking Langston Hughes’ Poem: Harlem (Dream Deferred)

• Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a powerful and thought-provoking work that explores the consequences of unfulfilled dreams. In this article, we will unpack the poem line by line, examining its imagery, themes, and underlying message. Along the way, we will gain a deeper understanding of Hughes’ perspective on the African American experience and the challenges faced by those who struggle to achieve their goals in a society that often denies them equal opportunities.

Historical Context

During the early 20th century, Harlem became a hub for African American culture and creativity. Known as the Harlem Renaissance, this period saw a flourishing of art, literature, music, and intellectual thought among Black Americans. Langston Hughes, one of the most prominent figures of the Harlem Renaissance, used his poetry to capture the experiences and struggles of Black people during this time. His poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” reflects the frustration and disappointment felt by many African Americans who were promised a better future but were still facing discrimination and inequality. Understanding the historical context of the Harlem Renaissance is crucial to fully appreciating Hughes’ work and the impact it had on Black culture.

Analysis of the Title

The title of Langston Hughes’ poem, “Harlem (Dream Deferred),” is a powerful and thought-provoking phrase that immediately captures the reader’s attention. The word “Harlem” refers to a historically significant neighborhood in New York City that was home to a vibrant African American community during the early 20th century. The phrase “dream deferred” suggests that something important has been delayed or postponed, and the poem explores the consequences of this delay. The title raises questions about the nature of dreams, the impact of societal barriers on marginalized communities, and the potential for frustration and anger when hopes and aspirations are repeatedly thwarted. By analyzing the title of the poem, readers can gain insight into the themes and ideas that Hughes explores in his work.

Structure of the Poem

The structure of Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a series of questions that explore the consequences of delaying one’s dreams. Each question is a metaphor for a dream that has been put on hold, and the poem builds in intensity as each question becomes more urgent. The first question asks if a deferred dream “dries up like a raisin in the sun,” while the final question asks if it “explodes.” This structure creates a sense of tension and unease, as the reader is left wondering what will happen if these dreams are never realized. Additionally, the repetition of the word “deferred” throughout the poem emphasizes the theme of delay and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams before it’s too late. Overall, the structure of the poem effectively conveys the message that dreams should not be put off indefinitely, as the consequences can be dire.

Themes and Motifs

One of the most prominent themes in Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is the idea of unfulfilled dreams. Throughout the poem, Hughes poses a series of questions about what happens to a dream that is delayed or put on hold. He suggests that such dreams may “dry up like a raisin in the sun” or “fester like a sore.” These vivid images convey a sense of frustration and disappointment, as if the dreamer’s hopes and aspirations are slowly withering away.

Another important motif in the poem is the idea of time. Hughes uses a variety of metaphors to suggest that dreams that are deferred may become more and more difficult to achieve as time goes on. For example, he compares a delayed dream to a “heavy load” that becomes harder and harder to carry. This sense of time passing and opportunities slipping away adds to the overall sense of urgency and desperation in the poem.

Overall, “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a powerful exploration of the human experience of unfulfilled dreams. Through vivid imagery and metaphor, Hughes captures the frustration and disappointment that can come from putting one’s hopes and aspirations on hold. At the same time, the poem also suggests that there may be a sense of hope and possibility even in the face of such setbacks.

Symbolism in the Poem

The poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” by Langston Hughes is rich in symbolism. The central theme of the poem is the consequences of delaying one’s dreams. The poem uses various symbols to convey this message. The first symbol is the “raisin in the sun.” The raisin represents a dream that has been left to dry up and wither away. The image of the raisin is a powerful one, as it conveys the idea of something that was once full of life and potential, but has now become dry and lifeless.

Another symbol used in the poem is the “festering sore.” This symbol represents the negative consequences of delaying one’s dreams. Just as a sore left untreated can become infected and spread, delaying one’s dreams can lead to negative consequences that can affect not only the individual, but also those around them.

The final symbol used in the poem is the “explosion.” This symbol represents the potential for violence and destruction that can result from delaying one’s dreams. The image of an explosion is a powerful one, as it conveys the idea of something that has been building up for a long time and is now ready to burst forth.

Overall, the use of symbolism in “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” helps to convey the central message of the poem. By using powerful and evocative symbols, Langston Hughes is able to convey the consequences of delaying one’s dreams in a way that is both memorable and impactful.

Imagery and Figurative Language

Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a masterful example of the use of imagery and figurative language to convey a powerful message. Throughout the poem, Hughes employs a variety of literary devices to create vivid and evocative images that capture the frustration and despair of the African American experience in the early 20th century. From the opening lines, where he asks “What happens to a dream deferred?” to the final stanza, where he warns that a deferred dream “explodes,” Hughes uses metaphor, simile, and other figurative language to paint a picture of a community struggling to find its place in a society that has denied it basic human rights. By doing so, he not only gives voice to the struggles of his own generation but also speaks to the ongoing struggle for equality and justice that continues to this day.

The Significance of Harlem

Harlem, a neighborhood in New York City, has played a significant role in African American history and culture. During the early 20th century, Harlem became a hub for the Great Migration, a period when millions of African Americans moved from the South to the North in search of better opportunities. This influx of people led to a cultural explosion known as the Harlem Renaissance, which saw the rise of African American art, literature, and music. Langston Hughes, one of the most prominent figures of the Harlem Renaissance, wrote his poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” during this time, capturing the frustration and disillusionment felt by many African Americans who had migrated to the North but still faced discrimination and inequality. Today, Harlem remains an important cultural center and a symbol of African American resilience and creativity.

The Dream Deferred

The Dream Deferred is a powerful and thought-provoking section of Langston Hughes’ poem, Harlem. It speaks to the idea of unfulfilled dreams and the consequences of not pursuing them. The poem asks a series of questions, each one building on the last, as if to say that the longer a dream is put off, the more dire the consequences become.

The imagery used in this section is particularly striking. The idea of a raisin in the sun, for example, is a powerful metaphor for a dream that has been left to wither and die. The image of a festering sore is equally powerful, suggesting that unfulfilled dreams can become a source of pain and infection.

What makes this section of the poem so effective is the way it speaks to a universal experience. We’ve all had dreams that we’ve put off pursuing for one reason or another. Maybe we didn’t have the time, the resources, or the courage to pursue them. But the longer we put them off, the more we risk losing them altogether.

The Dream Deferred is a reminder that our dreams are important, and that we should do everything in our power to pursue them. It’s a call to action, urging us to take risks and make sacrifices in order to achieve our goals. Because in the end, the only thing worse than a dream deferred is a dream that was never pursued at all.

Langston Hughes’ Purpose and Message

Langston Hughes was a poet who used his words to express the struggles and experiences of African Americans during the early 20th century. His poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a powerful example of his ability to convey a message through his writing. Hughes’ purpose in writing this poem was to shed light on the frustration and disappointment felt by African Americans who were denied the opportunity to achieve their dreams. The message of the poem is that when dreams are deferred, they can lead to negative consequences such as anger, bitterness, and hopelessness. Hughes’ use of vivid imagery and metaphors in the poem helps to convey this message in a powerful and memorable way. Overall, “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a testament to Hughes’ skill as a poet and his commitment to using his art to speak truth to power.

Relevance Today

Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is still relevant today as it speaks to the frustration and disappointment that can arise from unfulfilled dreams. The poem’s central question, “What happens to a dream deferred?” is one that many people can relate to, as they may have experienced setbacks or obstacles that have prevented them from achieving their goals.

In today’s society, where social and economic inequality persist, the poem’s themes of injustice and inequality are particularly resonant. The poem suggests that when dreams are deferred, they can lead to anger, bitterness, and even violence. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of addressing social and economic inequality, as well as the need to support individuals in achieving their dreams.

Moreover, the poem’s use of vivid imagery and metaphorical language continues to captivate readers today. The image of a raisin in the sun, for example, is a powerful metaphor for a dream that has been left to wither and die. This use of metaphorical language is a testament to Hughes’ skill as a poet and his ability to convey complex ideas in a simple and accessible way.

Overall, “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” remains a powerful and relevant poem that speaks to the human experience of unfulfilled dreams and the need for social and economic justice. Its themes and imagery continue to resonate with readers today, making it a timeless work of literature.

Interpretations and Critiques

One interpretation of Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is that it speaks to the frustration and disappointment felt by African Americans during the 1950s. The poem suggests that when dreams are repeatedly deferred or delayed, they can become explosive and destructive. This interpretation is supported by the vivid imagery used throughout the poem, such as the comparison of a deferred dream to a “raisin in the sun” or a “festering sore.”

Critics of the poem have argued that it is too simplistic and does not offer any solutions to the problems it presents. Some have also criticized Hughes for focusing solely on the experiences of African Americans, rather than exploring the broader issues of inequality and injustice in society. However, others have praised the poem for its powerful use of language and its ability to capture the frustration and anger felt by marginalized communities.

Overall, “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” remains a powerful and thought-provoking poem that continues to resonate with readers today. Its themes of frustration, disappointment, and the destructive power of deferred dreams are still relevant in a world where inequality and injustice continue to persist.

Comparisons to Other Poems by Langston Hughes

When analyzing Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred),” it is important to consider how it compares to his other works. One of the most notable comparisons is to his poem “A Dream Deferred,” which shares a similar theme and structure. Both poems explore the consequences of delaying or denying one’s dreams, and both use vivid imagery to convey the frustration and disappointment that can result. However, “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” takes a more specific approach by focusing on the experiences of African Americans in Harlem during the 1950s. This contextualization adds depth and nuance to the poem’s message, highlighting the systemic barriers that prevented many Black Americans from achieving their dreams. Overall, comparing “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” to Hughes’ other works can help readers better understand the poet’s unique style and perspective on the African American experience.

Impact on Literature and Culture

Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” has had a significant impact on literature and culture. The poem, which was published in 1951, explores the consequences of deferred dreams and the frustration and anger that can arise when those dreams are not realized. The poem has been widely studied and analyzed, and it has been cited as an important work in the development of African American literature.

One of the ways in which “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” has impacted literature is by inspiring other writers to explore similar themes. The poem’s focus on the frustration and disappointment that can come from unfulfilled dreams has resonated with many writers, and it has influenced the development of a range of literary works. For example, the poem has been cited as an influence on the work of writers like James Baldwin and Toni Morrison, both of whom have explored similar themes in their own writing.

In addition to its impact on literature, “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” has also had a significant impact on culture. The poem has been widely read and studied in schools and universities, and it has become a cultural touchstone for many people. The poem’s themes of frustration, anger, and disappointment have resonated with people from all walks of life, and it has become a symbol of the struggles that many people face in their lives.

Overall, Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” has had a profound impact on literature and culture. Its exploration of the consequences of deferred dreams has inspired other writers and resonated with readers from all walks of life. As such, it remains an important work in the development of African American literature and a cultural touchstone for many people.

Biographical Information on Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes was an American poet, novelist, and playwright who was born in Joplin, Missouri, in 1902. He was one of the most prominent figures of the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that took place in the 1920s and 1930s in Harlem, New York. Hughes’ work often explored the experiences of African Americans and their struggles for equality and social justice. He was also a political activist and a supporter of the Civil Rights Movement. Hughes’ poetry and prose have had a significant impact on American literature and continue to be studied and celebrated today.

Historical and Literary Influences on Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes was a prolific writer and poet who was heavily influenced by the historical and literary context of his time. Born in 1902, Hughes grew up during the Harlem Renaissance, a period of cultural and artistic flourishing among African Americans in the 1920s and 1930s. This movement had a significant impact on Hughes’ work, as he became one of the leading voices of the Harlem Renaissance.

In addition to the cultural context of his time, Hughes was also influenced by the literary traditions that came before him. He was particularly drawn to the work of Walt Whitman, who celebrated the beauty and diversity of America in his poetry. Hughes also admired the work of Paul Laurence Dunbar, a poet who wrote about the experiences of African Americans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Hughes’ own work often explored the experiences of African Americans, particularly those living in urban areas like Harlem. His poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a powerful reflection on the frustrations and disappointments that many African Americans faced during this time period. The poem asks a series of questions about what happens to a dream that is deferred, or put off indefinitely. Hughes suggests that these dreams can fester and become a source of anger and resentment, ultimately leading to explosive consequences.

Overall, Hughes’ work was deeply influenced by the historical and literary context of his time. His poetry reflects the struggles and triumphs of African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance, while also drawing on the traditions of earlier writers who paved the way for his own success.

Harlem Renaissance and its Significance

The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural movement that took place in the 1920s and 1930s in Harlem, New York. It was a time when African American artists, writers, musicians, and intellectuals flourished and created a new cultural identity for themselves. The movement was a response to the racism and discrimination that African Americans faced in the United States. It was a way for them to express their creativity and showcase their talents to the world. The Harlem Renaissance had a significant impact on American culture and society. It challenged the stereotypes and prejudices that existed about African Americans and helped to pave the way for the Civil Rights Movement. The movement also gave birth to some of the most influential writers and artists of the 20th century, including Langston Hughes. His poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a powerful reflection of the hopes and dreams of the African American community during the Harlem Renaissance.

The Role of Poetry in Social and Political Change

Poetry has always been a powerful tool for social and political change. It has the ability to express the emotions and experiences of marginalized communities, and to challenge the status quo. Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” is a perfect example of how poetry can be used to shed light on the struggles of African Americans during the 1950s. The poem asks the question, “What happens to a dream deferred?” and goes on to explore the various ways in which the dreams of African Americans were being deferred at the time. The poem speaks to the frustration and anger felt by many in the community, and it helped to spark a conversation about the need for change. Poetry has the power to inspire, to educate, and to mobilize people to action. It can be a catalyst for social and political change, and it can help to bring about a more just and equitable society.

Analysis of Langston Hughes’ Writing Style

Langston Hughes is known for his unique writing style that combines elements of jazz and blues with traditional poetry. His use of repetition, imagery, and symbolism creates a powerful and emotional impact on the reader. In his poem “Harlem (Dream Deferred),” Hughes uses the metaphor of a deferred dream to explore the consequences of unfulfilled aspirations. The repetition of the phrase “What happens to a dream deferred?” throughout the poem emphasizes the urgency and importance of the question. Hughes also uses vivid imagery to describe the potential outcomes of a deferred dream, such as a “raisin in the sun” or a “festering sore.” These images evoke a sense of frustration and hopelessness, highlighting the negative effects of unfulfilled dreams. Overall, Hughes’ writing style in “Harlem (Dream Deferred)” effectively conveys the theme of the poem and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

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A Dream Deferred By Langston Hughes

A Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes

A Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is considered to be a timeless classic, one of the most powerful, yet subtle poems in American history. Published in 1951, it is part of a series of social justice poems, often referred to as the “Harlem Renaissance”, which transformed the world’s perception of African-American culture. The poem has been discussed and analysed in various camps, ranging from the civil rights movement to literature classes.

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes starts with the famous line “asked the eternal question: What happens to a dream deferred?”. It then goes on to ask a series of questions that consider the possible fates of a deferred dream. The poem’s meaning has been interpreted in different ways over the years but many believe it is an exploration of the African American experience and the struggle for justice during the civil rights struggle.

The civil rights movement and the Harlem Renaissance were a time of great creativity and struggle, and the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes reflects this. It captures the power of poetry to encapsulate feeling and experience, but also to call for action. Experts believe that the poem was intended to be a challenge to those in power, asking why the dream of equality was not being realised.

Hughes wrote the poem in a highly lyrical style and the vivid imagery he creates is both joyful and heartbreaking. The use of language is particularly effective, as phrases such as “harvest of a sigh” creates a powerful poem that speaks both to the society of that time and to later generations.

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes has come to be seen as an iconic piece of American literature, with its themes of injustice and hope still relevant today. Its influence can be seen in the power of words to stir emotions and inspire action. It is a reminder of the power of art and literature to capture the human experience and its potential to promote social change.

The Role of Poetry in Social Change

Poetry has long been used as a tool for social change, and the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is a powerful example of this. Hughes was one of the great African American poets of the 20th century and his poems call attention to injustice and address the issues of inequality and representation. Through poetry, he was able to capture the emotions of a generation and to challenge people to confront issues of injustice.

Experts believe that poetry is an effective tool in making social change because it can convey complex emotions in a short form. This makes it a powerful way to engage with people and make them think. The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is an example of how poetry can be used to challenge people to reflect on the state of society and what can be done to create social change.

The use of poetry to address social change has a long history. From the writings of Greek tragedians to the work of 19th-century Romantic poets, such as William Wordsworth, poets have used their words to reflect on important issues. But the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is an example of how the power of poetry is still relevant today. It calls on people to reflect on the state of society, to think about the issues of inequality and to challenge injustice.

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is an important example of how poetry can be used to challenge and inspire. It brings together the history of poetic expression and calls on people to reflect on the state of society and to push for social change.

The Legacy of Langston Hughes

The legacy of Langston Hughes is a testament to the power of his words to inspire. After the publication of his Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes in 1951, he became a leading figure in literature and civil rights activism, and his work influenced generations of writers and activists. One of the foremost figures of the Harlem Renaissance, he was also a prolific writer of fiction, plays, essays, and poetry. His poems were often infused with humour and sarcasm but also with a profound sense of injustice.

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes has become a classic poem, read and studied in classrooms around the world, and its influence is still felt today. He achieved the extraordinary feat of communicating the feelings of inequality, frustration and despair while also providing hope and inspiring those who read his work. His words, “hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly”, remain relevant today and remind us of the importance of dreaming and striving for a better tomorrow.

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is widely considered to be Hughes’ most enduring and powerful poem and its messages remain relevant today. It encapsulates the feelings of despair and frustration but also brings hope and reminds us to strive for a better tomorrow. It is a timeless classic and a powerful reminder of the power of language and the potential of poetry to inspire social change.

Experiences of African-Americans Through Poetry

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes was part of a series of poems that explore the African American experience and struggle for justice. The civil rights movement provided a platform for African American writers to express themselves and share their experiences through poetry, art and music. These works often dealt with dark subject matter such as racism and inequality, but there was also a spirit of hope. Ideas of freedom and the power of change provided a sense of optimism and optimism and these ideas can be seen in the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes.

The civil rights movement is widely regarded as an inspiring and powerful time, with African-American writers, artists and activists able to express themselves in a way that had not been possible before. These works, such as the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes, have been studied and discussed in numerous seminars, literature classes, and camps, as they capture the heart of the African American experience and explore ideas such as justice, power and hope.

African American literature is often associated with the civil rights movement, and its legacy lives on today in many ways. It has had a major impact on modern literature and the current popular culture and those who read it are often inspired to look at their own lives and those of others in different ways. From poetry to fiction, the civil rights movement has had a powerful effect on African-American writing and has left a lasting legacy on the world.

Social Relevance of a Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes wrote the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes over 70 years ago, but its relevance to today’s world is still strong. The poem explores themes of justice, power and hope which are still pertinent today. Today, many people across the world are still struggling to achieve their dreams and the poem speaks to this, as it reflects on the difficulty of achieving one’s goals despite obstacles. It can also be interpreted in more contemporary terms, such as the struggle for gender equality, racial justice and the fight for LGBTQ rights.

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes speaks to a wide audience and its social relevance is strong. It reflects the universal human experience of striving for a better future and calls on people to think about oppression and injustice. The poem reminds us that there is hope, even in the face of despair, and it is a powerful tool for raising awareness and inspiring people to make a change.

The dream of a better tomorrow is still alive, and the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes remains an important reminder that challenging injustice is the only way to create lasting change. The poem may have been written over 70 years ago, but its importance is still relevant today and its messages are still being heard.

The Impact of Poetry on Society

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes was a part of a powerful movement, which sought to challenge the status quo and make lasting change. The civil rights movement was a time of great creativity and expression, with poets, artists and activists each playing their part in creating a better future. This period of history is a testament to the power of art and literature to bring about social change, and it is this power that is reflected in the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes.

Poetry is a particularly powerful form of expression, as it can convey complex emotions in few words. It is both an art and a tool, and its importance in social change cannot be underestimated. The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is an example of how poetry can provide a platform for discussing difficult topics and can be used to challenge the status quo.

The Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is a powerful example of how poetry can be used to create social change. The poem is still relevant today and its themes of justice and hope still resonate with readers and highlight the power of art to inspire and inform.

Poetry has a long history of being used as a tool for social change, and the Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes is a fine example of how this is still true today. Poems can reach a wide audience and communicate complex emotions, sparking conversation and debate. They can be used to challenge the status quo and to push for change. Poetry may be a quiet voice but its power should not be underestimated.

Dannah Hannah is an established poet and author who loves to write about the beauty and power of poetry. She has published several collections of her own works, as well as articles and reviews on poets she admires. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, with a specialization in poetics, from the University of Toronto. Hannah was also a panelist for the 2017 Futurepoem book Poetry + Social Justice, which aimed to bring attention to activism through poetry. She lives in Toronto, Canada, where she continues to write and explore the depths of poetry and its influence on our lives.

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A Dream Deferred by Langston Hughes

A bout of writing, and I ran out of cigarettes. Out of all nights. Why do I do this to myself.

A Dream Deferred Langston Hughes What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a sore– And then run? Does it stink like rotten meat? Or crust and sugar over– like a syrupy sweet? Maybe it just sags like a heavy load. Or does it explode?

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Inspiration comes from a place of freedom in expressing our own stories of creation. Movement and artistic grace is born from this feeling. It is a time that we can rejoice knowing we are united with the rest of the world and universe, while knowing in the stillness of our still beating hearts that we are as God’s children, and have been given this inspiration so that our voices may rise above our grief and reach into heaven.

leann knowles

this poem is the best poem i ever heard in my whole entire life

Melissa Mae Flaherty

this is one of my favorite poems. i was looking for it somewhere online to post to my Facebook page – in honor of National Poetry Month. i am so glad to have stumbled upon your site. that mary oliver quote at the top hits hard, incredible: Listen, are you breathing just a little, and calling it a life? ― Mary Oliver

Darryl Riley

A dream deferred is just that :deferred, until the mistakes, setbacks, hurts , bad habits and hang-ups have been addressed positively, then the dream may have freedom to become a reality. Darryl Riley

a dream deferred…….this is my life its a dream deferred

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designedbydanita

Even when you fight with every cell in your body to achieve your dreams…one day some “man” will come alone and snatch them away…just like that. In a blink. Mine exploded! Today!

The poem talks about what happens when a dream IS deferred, not what happens when setbacks are overcome. It reflects on influential forces beyond one’s personal control. Investing in a friend who then takes the money and runs away is unforeseen, and beyond one’s control. Being denied employment because of the color of one’s skin is beyond one’s control. Langston Hughes was referring to the dreams of black people in America when their dreams of having a good job, moving out of the ghetto, getting their kids into decent neighborhoods and schools, and sending them to college was beyond their control. Many of those black people lived to see their dreams come true. Their lives were not a dream deferred; things just happened on God’s timetable. But the one’s who passed before obtaining their dreams, theirs was a dream deferred.

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Hughes’ “Harlem: A Dream Deferred” Textual Analysis Essay

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The famous poet, James Langston Hughes, has started writing poetry at an early age. One of his most popular poems is “Harlem: A Dream Deferred.” In this profound poem, the poet says, “A life without no dreams is no life at all.” (Hughes) This poem is especially noteworthy for the use of literary devices like smiles, imagery and skewed rhyme schemes, etc, which make the poet’s abstraction more concrete and tangible for his audience. He postulates the idea that humans do not need to be afraid to dream. When we think more about our goals, they become imprinted in our subconscious mind and we see things related to them in our dreams when we sleep. Most of us often see dreams that we cannot fulfill due to certain limitations. This may have provoked thought in the poet about what happens to those dreams. Poems often reflect the ideas and thoughts of the writer who creates them. Mostly, we see poets expressing what they feel. But in Harlem, this does not seem to be the case. The poet is asking a lot of questions to the readers. It is up to them to figure out what happens to those dreams. The poet sees a dream like the one Martin Luther King has in “I have a Dream,” where African Americans will someday be respected and treated equally here in America.

The analysis of this essay will identify three points; the first describes how Imagery makes the poem more interesting and real; the second point will help describe the characteristics of the poem with a simile; and the third and last will show how the structure of the poem, plays a crucial role in giving it real form.

The poet has presented several similes in this piece, such as ‘Like a Raisin’, and ‘Like a Sore’. The poet asks whether the dream dries up like a raisin in the sun. The raisin is already dry, but even then it serves us with nourishment. When we continue to keep it in the sun, it will tend to lose its nutritional value. So we are likely to imagine that the dream may eventually dry up, and it appears that the poet is cleverly telling his audience not to waste their potential. He may even be hinting to the “sun” as White Americans who are supposedly exploiting African Americans in this country. On the other hand, the poet puts forth a different idea, something opposite to the raisin. He asks whether the dream got swollen up like a sore and then it ran. So, unlike the raisin that shrinks, maybe the deferred dream gets inflated and it escapes. This is similar to a situation when you let go of an inflated balloon, and you never know where it ends up when it falls to the ground. In this manner, I think the poet neither does know himself exactly where the dream will end up. It appears that the poet is telling us not to be too obsessed with our goals, to the extent that it may keep swelling to the extent that we may totally lose control over it.

The poet next asks whether the dream, similar to a sore stinks like rotten meat. The poet, through this allusion, perhaps refers to the bad dreams we have, which we interpret as nightmares, which destroy our peace of mind. Now, maybe, the poet uses the term ‘rotten meat’ to make us feel the pain of oppression and racism African Americans faced here in America; or maybe the author wants to tell us that if we do not convert our dreams into reality, those very dreams will soon start to rot, like meat that has been left unattended for several days. In the next line, the author asks whether the dream disguised itself as a syrupy sugary sweet crust. Dreams such as these, have been known to evolve with the help of one seeking positive goals and maintaining a positive attitude. “The dreams of life and goals” that humans have, are central to what makes men and women valuable members of society (Grimes). If we maintain this kind of positive thinking, our energy will in fact channel our surface; in the same way, a crust can be formed over our aspirations; that is when our goals and dreams can no longer be fulfilled. So, before the outer layers start forming, we must take control of our goals and put them into action very quickly. That may be why, “the poet” hints that our dreams sometimes sag and becomes a heavy load, when we are unable to fulfill them. “He then asks us the question,” if it doesn’t weigh down our dreams due to pressure, then it will explode, due to even more pressure. It is obvious that when people do not get their way, their emotions may eventually get in the way. This may lead to the very same type of explosion that happens when we come under pressure.

The poem has seven sentences out of which six are questions. The rhyme scheme is irregular, that is, a bad efe the. Here, ‘sun’ in the third line rhymes with the fifth line’s ‘run’; the sixth line’s ‘meat’ rhymes with the eighth line’s ‘sweet’ and the tenth line’s ‘load’ rhymes with the eleventh line’s ‘explode.’ “This irregularity gives these lines a jagged edge, like the edge of a shard of broken glass, enabling Hughes’s message to lacerate its readers” (J., Michael). In the fourth and eighth lines, there are two hyphens used. This is so that the poet can get the break that he wants in the sentence and so as not to create a stop in the sentence as well so that it can be read continuously.

This poem really does make a big difference, and in fact, it has influenced a lot of toward good things. People see dreams as a pathway to a better and constructive way of life, which is what clearly denotes, “the sweet side of hope” called equality; that African Americans have dreamed of for themselves for very long. This also can be taken into account in another way too, just like the sweet becomes rancid when a crust forms on its people back then and now, “in retrospect” to how groups of people have at present become politically energized in local and national politics today. This is a living example, which shows that imagery makes poems more concrete, similes help to interpret the characteristics of a poem, which can play a crucial role in giving that said poem, “real form” and “meaning.” So, as mentioned earlier, what Hughes says remains a fact of human existence: “A life without no dreams is no life at all.” We need not be afraid to dream. We can dream of changes, and those changes will definitely happen if we hold on to them and persevere. Inspiration can knock at your door at any time, just like opportunity. But if you seek and search for inspiration, you are bound to find it much quicker.

Learn to keep all those inspirations inner-mind and readily available, because there is one thing no one can stop you from doing, and that is dreaming. In reality of becoming a dream catcher, you will find out that you will eventually achieve some, if not all of your inspirations and dreams, that will play or change an intricate part of your life.

Grimes, Linda Sue. Hughes “Harlem-A Dream Deferred” Suite 101. 2008. Web.

Langston Hughes’s Harlem . You Tube. 2009. Web.

Michael, J. “Harlem” A poem by Langston Hughes Study guide. Amazon.Com. 2007.

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IvyPanda. (2022, January 1). Hughes’ “Harlem: A Dream Deferred” Textual Analysis. https://ivypanda.com/essays/hughes-harlem-a-dream-deferred-textual-analysis/

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What happens to a dream deferred?       Does it dry up       like a raisin in the sun?       Or fester like a sore—       And then run?       Does it stink like rotten meat?       Or crust and sugar over—       like a syrupy sweet?       Maybe it just sags       like a heavy load.        Or does it explode? Copyright Credit: Langston Hughes, "Harlem" from The Collected Works of Langston Hughes. Copyright © 2002 by Langston Hughes. Reprinted by permission of Harold Ober Associates, Inc.

• Harlem (”What happens to a dream deferred?”)

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One of the most famous poems penned by Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes. Written in 1951, this poem was the inspiration for Lorraine Hansberry’s classic play A Raisin in the Sun .

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I sat there singing her Songs in the dark. She said; 'I do not understand The words’.

When I get to be a composer I’m gonna write me some music abou… Daybreak in Alabama And I’m gonna put the purtiest so… Rising out of the ground like a sw…

I take my dreams and make of them… and a round fountain with a beauti… And a song with a broken heart and… Do you understand my dreams? Sometimes you say you do,

Night funeral In Harlem: Where did they get Them two fine cars? Insurance man, he did not pay—

Clean the spittoons, boy. Detroit, Chicago, Atlantic City, Palm Beach.

I am God— Without one friend, Alone in my purity World without end. Below me young lovers

Gather quickly Out of darkness All the songs you know And throw them at the sun Before they melt

My old mule, He’s gota grin on his face. He’s been a mule so long He’s forgotten about his race. I’m like that old mule —

In the Quarter of the Negroes Where the doors are doors of paper Dust of dingy atoms Blows a scratchy sound. Amorphous jack—o’—Lanterns caper

Here I sit With my shoes mismated. Lawdy—mercy! I’s frustrated!

I got to leave this town. It’s a lonesome place. Got to leave this town cause It’s a lonesome place. A po’, po’ boy can’t

The census man, The day he came round, Wanted my name To put it down. I said, Johnson,

When you turn the corner And you run into yourself Then you know that you have turned All the corners that are left

From Christ to Ghandi Appears this truth— St. Francis of Assisi Proves it, too: Goodness becomes grandeur

Being walkers with the dawn and mo… Walkers with the sun and morning, We are not afraid of night, Nor days of gloom, Nor darkness—

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Comparing “Dreams” and “Harlem" (A Dream Deferred)

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Use the traditional TP-CASTT activity to have students compare two poems with similar themes and topics. In the following example, “Dreams” and “Harlem" (A Dream Deferred) are compared to highlight the common theme of the importance of holding onto dreams and goals.

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TPCASTT Example for “Harlem" (A Dream Deferred)

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Type of Activity: TPCASTT Poetry Analysis

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Dreams and Harlem (A Dream Deferred)

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