Question

Write a minimum 150 word response in which you explain how Hughes uses poetic devices such as alliteration,

Answer 1

Answer:

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Explanation:

Hughes uses many poetic devices in his poem "Theme for English B." These include alliteration, assonance, consonance, and enjambment. Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds in quick succession to create rhythm. An example of this device can been seen in the quote, "I feel and see and hear, Harlem, I hear you." The repetition of the "h" sounds creates a rhythm and also lets the reader know that this concept is an important one. This reveals the theme that Hughes is trying to get across: that the assignment is anything but simple for Hughes because he doesn't really have a story, or at least not one that will impress the professor. Assonance and consonance are also important in Hughes poem. These are created by the repetitions of vowel sounds (assonance) and consonant sounds (consonance). These can be used to create mood in the poem. An example of each in "Theme for English B" are the quotes, "I like a pipe for a Christmas present," and "I am twenty-two, colored, born in Winston-Salem." In the first quote, the sound of "i" is repeated. The second quote uses a repeated consonant "r" sound to make the voice of the speaker sound stressed.  The final technique the Hughes uses in his poem is enjambment. Enjambment is the continuation of a sentence without pause of punctuation. An example of this is the quote, "You are white/ yet a part of me I guess you learn from me / although you're older and white / and somewhat more free." Hughes uses this to make it seem like the world is weighing down upon him without relenting. In conclusion, Hughes uses many literary devices, including alliteration, assonance, consonance, and enjambment to show the reader the racism of his home town, Harlem. He feels like the professor has given him the assignment to write about himself before the professor wants him to prove himself capable and show who he is, all because he is black. Hughes uses the poem as a platform to discuss racism and prejudice and the need to overcome it.

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