Question

“We Wear the Mask” was published in 1896. What messages does the poem convey, and in what ways are these messages as—if not more—relevant now than at the time of the poem’s original publication? To support your interpretation of the poem’s messages and relevance, provide evidence from the text, from your knowledge of past and current events, and from your personal experience.

Answer 1

Paul Laurence Dunbar's poem "We Wear the Mask" illustrates the coping mechanism of hiding true feelings behind a mask, a concept that resonates with current events like racial injustices and the pandemic. The theme of disguise is as relevant today as it was in the 19th century, highlighting the continued challenges faced by marginalized groups.

Step-by-step explanation:

Relevance of "We Wear the Mask"

The poem "We Wear the Mask" by Paul Laurence Dunbar, published in 1896, conveys the message of concealment of sorrow and suffering behind a facade of happiness and contentment. This masking acts as a survival strategy in a world that does not acknowledge or allow the expression of true feelings, particularly in the context of African American experiences of racial discrimination. The image of the mask and its text emerge as symbolic artifacts representing the complexities faced by people, such as the racial tensions and the global pandemic in the year 2020. The poem's message is even more relevant now as it echoes the sentiments of minorities and other marginalized groups who continue to hide their pain and struggles behind masks of resilience and strength in the face of ongoing social injustices.

Through its universal themes of disguise and suppression of identity, the poem speaks to current events and personal experiences. It underscores the ways in which individuals often veil their true identities, as a way of coping with societal expectations or pressures. The idea that appearances may be deceiving is a timeless truth, emphasized by the characters' tendency to wear "masks" in the symbolic sense.

Literature has the power to invoke multiple readings and interpretations, encouraging us to consider the social and cultural identity implications on texts. Dunbar's work prompts readers to think beyond the surface and explore the ethnic, cultural, and social dynamics that contribute to the practice of self-concealment, which remains a relevant issue in today's society. The persistence of these issues, despite the passage of over a century, signifies the enduring relevance of Dunbar's poetry.