Langston Hughes was a prominent African American poet, novelist, and social activist of the early 20th century. His works are celebrated for their powerful themes of racial langston hughes poem crossword pride and social injustice, and his poetry often reflects the experiences of African Americans living in a racially divided society.
One of Hughes’ most popular poems is “Cross,” which was first published in 1926 in his collection, “The Weary Blues.” The poem is a short, yet powerful meditation on the idea of race, and the role it plays in shaping our lives and identities.
The poem begins with the lines, “My old man’s a white old man / And my old mother’s black.” These lines immediately establish the racial tension that is at the heart of the poem. The speaker’s mixed-race heritage creates a sense of conflict within him, as he struggles to reconcile the two halves of his identity.
The next few lines of the poem describe the speaker’s physical appearance, and the way that his mixed-race heritage has shaped his features. He says, “If ever I cursed my white old man / I take my curses back. / If ever I cursed my black old mother / And wished she were in hell, / I’m sorry for that too.”
These lines reveal the speaker’s inner turmoil, as he grapples with the complexities of his racial identity. He realizes that he cannot simply reject one part of his heritage in favor of the other, and that both his black and white ancestors have shaped who he is.
The final lines of the poem are perhaps the most powerful, as they sum up the speaker’s struggle with race and identity. He says, “My old man died in a fine big house. / My ma died in a shack. / I wonder where I’m gonna die, / Being neither white nor black?”
These lines express the speaker’s sense of alienation and uncertainty, as he wonders where he belongs in a society that is divided by race. The poem is a poignant reminder of the ways in which race shapes our lives and identities, and of the ongoing struggle for racial equality in America.
In addition to its poignant themes, “Cross” is also notable for its use of language and imagery. Hughes employs simple, direct language that is accessible to readers of all backgrounds, yet also rich with meaning and nuance.
The poem’s central metaphor of the cross is particularly effective, as it captures the complex and often painful intersections of race, culture, and history. The cross is a symbol of both unity and division, of sacrifice and redemption, and these multiple meanings are woven throughout the poem.
The use of contrast and juxtaposition is another notable feature of “Cross.” The poem contrasts the speaker’s white father and black mother, the fine big house and the shack, and the speaker’s own physical features. These contrasts serve to highlight the contradictions and complexities of the speaker’s identity, as well as the larger social and cultural forces that shape it.
Overall, “Cross” is a powerful and resonant work of poetry that continues to speak to readers today. Its themes of race, identity, and social justice are as relevant as ever, and its use of language and imagery remains both accessible and profound. As a central figure in the Harlem Renaissance and one of the most important poets of the 20th century, Langston Hughes has left an indelible mark on American literature and culture, and “Cross” stands as one of his enduring masterpieces.
In conclusion, Langston Hughes’ poem “Cross” is a powerful meditation on race and identity, and the ways in which our heritage shapes who we are. Its themes of racial pride and social injustice are as relevant today as they were when the poem was first published, and it continues to be celebrated as one of Hughes’ most important works.
