What happens to a dream deferred? ("Harlem II*)

1 answer

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.