Freedom
Langston Hughes' poem 'Freedom' is a powerful declaration of the necessity and urgency of freedom for African Americans. Written during the Harlem Renaissance, the poem rejects the idea of waiting for freedom to come through gradual change or compromise. Hughes emphasizes that freedom is a right, not a privilege, and should be claimed immediately. He criticizes the passive attitude of waiting for change, asserting that freedom is essential for life and cannot be postponed. The poem uses the metaphor of freedom as a 'strong seed' that must be planted and nurtured, highlighting its fundamental importance. Hughes' work reflects the broader civil rights struggles of his time, advocating for equality and justice. The poem's free verse form allows for a direct and passionate expression of these themes.
| Word | In English | Plain (English) | Pron. |
|---|---|---|---|
| compromise | agreement, settlement | a middle way where each side gives up something | kom-pruh-mahyz |
| fellow | person, individual | another person | fel-oh |
| tire | get bored, become weary | to become bored or tired of something | tahyuhr |
| course | path, direction | the way something goes or happens | kawrs |
| planted | sowed, placed | to put something in the ground to grow | plan-tid |
| seed | beginning, origin | a small thing from which a plant grows | seed |
| need | necessity, requirement | something very important | need |
Langston Hughes (1901–1967) was an American poet, social activist, and a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance. Known for his innovative jazz poetry, Hughes wrote extensively about the African American experience. His work spanned poetry, plays, and novels, contributing significantly to American literature.
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