In "I, Too, Sing America," Langston Hughes expresses the experiences of being an African American in America. The speaker asserts their identity and belonging by proclaiming that they too sing America. However, they acknowledge being treated differently due to their darker skin, being sent to eat in the kitchen when company arrives.
Despite this segregation, the speaker remains resilient and finds joy in their circumstances. They laugh, eat well, and grow strong, refusing to be defined by societal prejudices. The speaker confidently declares their presence and importance by stating that they will be at the table when company comes, defying the expectations set for them.
In the future, the speaker predicts a shift in the dynamics of power and equality. They declare that nobody will dare assign them to the kitchen, indicating a time when racial discrimination and segregation will no longer be tolerated. The speaker projects a sense of pride and self-assuredness, confident that their worth and beauty will be undeniable to all.
In the final line, the speaker asserts their place in America, asserting that they too are America. This proclamation challenges the notion that America solely belongs to one race or group, emphasizing the inclusivity and diversity that should characterize the nation. Through this poem, Hughes highlights the struggle and resilience of African Americans while asserting their rightful claim to America.
Text 2: “I, Too, Sing America” by Langston Hughes
1 I, too, sing America.
I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
5 But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.
Tomorrow,
I’ll be at the table
10 When company comes.
Nobody’ll dare
Say to me,
“Eat in the kitchen,"
Then.
15 Besides,
They’ll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed—
I, too, am America.
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