illustrated portrait of American poet and author Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes

Start Free Trial

Discussion Topic

Imagery and Theme in "In Time of Silver Rain" by Langston Hughes

Summary:

"In Time of Silver Rain" by Langston Hughes explores themes of renewal and rebirth, using springtime as a metaphor for new life and hope. The poem's imagery vividly depicts the transformation of nature, with green grasses, flowers, and butterflies symbolizing the joy and beauty of spring. The recurring phrase "Of Life, Of Life, Of Life" emphasizes the celebration of life's rejuvenation. Hughes' work is both inspirational and uplifting, encouraging readers to embrace life's cycles and find joy in renewal.

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

What is the theme of "In Time of Silver Rain" by Langston Hughes?

Langston Hughes wrote this poem for his good friend, Lorraine Hansberry, the author of A Raisin in the Sun, when he learned that she had been diagnosed with cancer.  The poem is uplifting and harkens back to the Romanticism era of poetry writing. It is very formal and to the point yet has deeper meaning.  The poem is about rebirth and how when spring arrives, life is renewed.  The poem is inspirational suggesting that there is life after death just like after the dead of winter comes the birth of spring.  It seems to be a hopeful poem encouraging Hansberry to embrace life when Hughes writes, “The wonder spreads . . . Of Life, Of Life, Of Life.”

This inspiring poem suggests that Hughes is attempting to lift Hansberry’s spirits to enjoy life for as long as she can.  It can also suggest that life goes on like the...

Unlock
This Answer Now

Start your 48-hour free trial and get ahead in class. Boost your grades with access to expert answers and top-tier study guides. Thousands of students are already mastering their assignments—don't miss out. Cancel anytime.

Get 48 Hours Free Access

coming of spring each year.

Approved by eNotes Editorial
An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

Have you read the poem?  If not, I recommend it; it is very short and easy to understand.  I have provided a link to it below, and encourage you to read it for yourself if you haven't already.

The main theme of this poem is springtime.  It is how in the spring, the earth is given new life.  New grass, flowers, birds, and new growth and beauty are all around.  Hughes states that "earth puts forth new life again," and that all of the new growth-the trees, grass, birds-seem to shout "Of life, of life,  of life!"  Even people are impacted by nature's rebirth; "passing boys and girls go singing too," and everyone is happier and filled with rejuvenation and hope.

I hope that those thoughts help a bit; take a look at the poem itself too.  Good luck!

Approved by eNotes Editorial
An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

What images fit the poem "In Time Of Silver Rain" by Langston Hughes?

I assume that you mean the poem "In Time of Silver Rain" by Langston Hughes.  This is a simple poem that describes the beauty and joy of springtime.

Some of the images in this poem are:

a)

 Green grasses grow
And flowers lift their heads,


b)

The butterflies
Lift silken wings

c)

And trees put forth
New leaves

d)

down the roadway
Passing boys and girls
Go singing

A couple of interesting notes about this poem:

The word "life" is repeated 5 times.

If you look at how the poem is printed on a page (or computer screen) each stanza looks a little bit like a tree (see link below).

Approved by eNotes Editorial