Question

2.

In the poem, the speaker expresses confidence about the equal treatment he will have tomorrow.
Do you think Langston Hughes would be happy with the state of America today? Why or why not?
What do you think he'd want to see change?
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No

Answer 1

Langston Hughes used his poetry to express the civil rights struggles of African Americans, emphasizing themes of racial equality and desegregation. Despite witnessing informally segregated environments, his work reflects a hopeful outlook for a future where all Americans are treated equally.

Step-by-step explanation:

Langston Hughes and Civil Rights in Poetry

Langston Hughes, a preeminent figure during the Harlem Renaissance, expressed his quest for racial equality through poignant poetry. In poems like I, Too, Sing America, Hughes vividly portrayed the struggles for civil rights faced by African Americans. He depicted the everyday realities of segregation and discrimination, yet maintained a resilient tone, suggesting a hopeful future. Langston Hughes emphasized the desegregation of society and the importance of being acknowledged as an equal part of American identity. For instance, the lines from I, Too, Sing America "They send me to eat in the kitchen when company comes, but I laugh, and eat well, and grow strong." reflect the poet's confidence that African Americans will one day be seen as equal Americans.

Hughes's cultural background and personal encounters with racial inequality informed his work. His family's struggle against racial oppression and the informal segregation he witnessed, even in the supposedly integrated environments of the North, were strong influences. His poetry served not only as a personal catharsis but also as a broader call to action for societal change. If Hughes were to see America today, he might recognize progress in civil rights yet also the need for further advancements. He would likely advocate for the ongoing fight against systemic biases and for policies that promote genuine equality.

Answer 2

Step-by-step explanation:

Langston Hughes was a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that celebrated African American art, literature, and music. His poetry often focused on issues of race and equality, and he was a strong advocate for civil rights.

Given his commitment to equality and justice, it is likely that Hughes would be pleased with some of the progress that has been made in America since his time. For instance, the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s resulted in significant legal and social changes, such as the desegregation of schools and the passage of anti-discrimination laws.

However, it is also likely that Hughes would recognize that there is still much work to be done to achieve true equality in America. For instance, racial disparities continue to exist in areas such as healthcare, education, and criminal justice. Hughes might want to see greater efforts made to address these inequalities and ensure that all Americans have access to the same opportunities.

Overall, it is difficult to say for certain what Langston Hughes' views would be on the state of America today, but it is clear that he was deeply committed to fighting for justice and equality, and his legacy continues to inspire many people to this day.