Student Question
What is the meaning and structure of Langston Hughes' poem "Sun Song"?
Quick answer:
Langston Hughes' poem "Sun Song" uses repetition of the word "sun" to evoke emotional connections and employs opposites to illustrate the vastness of songs that can be sung and shared. The poem suggests a communal gathering and sharing of cultural songs, specifically referencing the heritage of African slaves, as indicated by phrases like "Dark ones of Africa" and "on the Georgia roads." This theme aligns with Hughes' broader body of work on African American culture.
The poem is written with repetition of the word sun in order to evoke emotion around that word. In this way as you understand the poem you then relate it to the word sun.
The poem is also using opposites to show the vastness of the songs one could sing and bring. The poem suggests a gathering and sharing of songs. These songs contain culture of the "Dark ones of Africa" "on the Georgia roads". Hughes is referring to the songs of the African slaves. Langston Hughes wrote several pieces related to this topic.
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