Question

Identity and freedom are important ideas presented in many of the poems from the Harlem Renaissance. Of the poems you have read so far, which did you find most powerful regarding the themes of identity and/or freedom and why? Don’t forget evidence (quotes, name of poem, author).

Answer 1

Although we do not know which poems the question refers to, a poem that was written during the Harlem Renaissance and which discusses the topics of identity and freedom is the poem "I, Too" by Langston Hughes.

This poem talks about the role that African Americans have in society. The author references Walt Whitman in the first line of the poem:

"I, too, sing America."

With this statement, the author wants to remind people that African Americans are an intrinsic part of the nation. However, he also highlights the fact that, despite this, they are still treated as second-class citizens:

"I am the darker brother.

They send me to eat in the kitchen

When company comes,"

However, he also promises a future in the country in which African Americans will no longer be embarrased of who they are. Instead, they will be proud, and people will be forced to recognize their importance and value:

"Besides,

They’ll see how beautiful I am

And be ashamed—"