In the poem "Harlem II," also known as "A Dream Deferred," written by Langston Hughes, the speaker contemplates the consequences of delaying or neglecting one's dreams or aspirations. Hughes presents a vivid series of images to describe the potential outcomes of a dream deferred:
1. "Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?"
This line suggests that when a dream is postponed or unfulfilled, it may wither away and lose its vitality, just like a grape turning into a shriveled raisin.
2. "Or fester like a sore— And then run?"
Here, Hughes uses the image of a sore that festers and eventually bursts open. It implies that when a dream is suppressed or ignored, it may cause a buildup of frustration or resentment that may eventually erupt in a destructive manner.
3. "Does it stink like rotten meat?"
This line signifies that an unfulfilled dream may emit an unpleasant odor, highlighting a sense of decay and disappointment. It suggests that not pursuing one's dreams can lead to a negative impact on both the individual and society.
4. "Or crust and sugar over— like a syrupy sweet?"
Hughes describes how a dream deferred could form a hardened outer layer, like sugar that crystallizes over time. This image implies that the dream may be concealed beneath a superficial appearance of contentment, masking the underlying dissatisfaction or longing.
5. "Maybe it just sags like a heavy load."
The phrase suggests that a dream deferred may begin to weigh heavily on the individual, causing a sense of burden and weariness. It indicates that unfulfilled dreams can have a detrimental effect on a person's emotional and mental well-being.
The poem raises questions about the consequences of neglecting one's dreams and serves as a call to action. It urges individuals to not let their dreams stagnate, but rather to chase after them and confront the challenges that may come their way.
What happens to a dream deferred? ("Harlem II*)
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