“Harlem”
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?
--Langston Hughes
This poem is talking about dreams during the Harlem Renaissance. During this time it was probable that many individuals had great dreams that they wanted to chase after. The subject of dreams itself is quite unique. Dreams are one of the things that no one understands. This poems talks about dreams and the different ways that they remain a part of or reflect our lives. The dreams can either "dry up like a raisin in the sun" or "explode".
ReplyDeleteDuring the time of the Harlem Renaissance many African Americans held hgh hopes for themselves and others. This was a great time period for carpe diem, trying new things, and experimenting. They all had questions about their dreams and how the outcome would be, the possible answers suggest that they might "dry up" like a "raisin in the sun" or "fester like a sore/and then run." These answers are not pleasent, they are basically diminishing the dream of African American equality. But still through these grotesque times the African-American's held their heads high and looked at the glass half full, instead of half empty.
ReplyDeleteI really like this poem. It's nice and short yet has so much meaning. The title really ties the poem together. The title tells you that the poem is about the black struggle. However, I think you can relate this poem to any long struggle.
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