I Too Sing America
I, too, sing America.
I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.Tomorrow,
I’ll be at the table
When company comes.
Nobody’ll dare
Say to me,
“Eat in the kitchen,”
Then.Besides,
They’ll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed.
I, too, am America.
Summary of I Too Sing America
- Popularity of “I Too Sing America”: Written by Langston Hughes, a central figure of the Harlem Renaissance, “I, Too” first appeared in 1922 in The Crisis and was later included in his 1926 collection, The Weary Blues. The poem’s enduring power lies in its concise yet potent portrayal of racial inequality and its hopeful vision for a future of inclusion. It resonated deeply during the Jim Crow era and continues to speak to issues of social justice today.
- “I Too Sing America” as a Representative of Racial Discrimination: The poem directly addresses the experience of being marginalized within one’s own country. The speaker, identifying as the “darker brother,” is relegated to the kitchen while guests are entertained, symbolizing the systemic exclusion faced by African Americans. However, the poem isn’t simply a lament; it’s a declaration of resilience and a confident prediction of eventual equality. The speaker doesn’t passively accept this treatment, but rather “laughs” and “grow[s] strong,” refusing to be diminished.
- Major Themes in “I Too Sing America”: The poem explores several interconnected themes. Racial discrimination is central, highlighting the pain and indignity of segregation. Patriotism, though complicated by the speaker’s treatment, is powerfully asserted, the speaker also sings America, claiming their rightful place within the nation’s identity. Perhaps most importantly, the poem embodies hope. The speaker’s anticipation of a future where they’ll dine “at the table” isn’t naive optimism, but a steadfast belief in the possibility of a more just society.
Analysis of Literary Devices Used in I Too Sing America
Langston Hughes masterfully employs various literary devices to amplify the poem’s message and emotional impact. These techniques contribute to its accessibility and lasting resonance.
- Assonance: The repetition of vowel sounds adds musicality and emphasis. Notice the repeated short “i” sound in “I, too, sing America,” creating a sense of unity and declaration.
- Alliteration: While less prominent, alliteration subtly enhances the rhythm. The repetition of the “c” sound in “company comes” draws attention to the social interaction that excludes the speaker.
- Consonance: The repetition of consonant sounds contributes to the poem’s auditory texture. The “g” sound in “grow strong” emphasizes the speaker’s resilience and developing power.
- Dialogue (Implied): Though not a direct conversation, the phrase “Eat in the kitchen” functions as a command, representing the dismissive words and attitudes the speaker faces. This creates a sense of immediacy and realism.
- Imagery: Hughes uses vivid imagery to engage the reader’s senses. “Eat in the kitchen” evokes a specific scene of segregation, while “grow strong” creates a powerful image of resilience and inner strength.
- Symbolism: The “kitchen” and “table” are potent symbols. The kitchen represents exclusion and marginalization, while the table symbolizes inclusion, belonging, and equal status.
Analysis of Poetic Devices Used in I Too Sing America
Beyond literary devices, Hughes expertly utilizes poetic techniques to shape the poem’s meaning and emotional effect. These elements work together to create a concise yet profoundly impactful work.
- Diction: Hughes’s language is simple and direct, yet deeply resonant. The use of everyday words like “kitchen” and “table” makes the poem accessible, while its underlying message is powerfully complex.
- Free Verse: The poem’s free verse structure—lacking a consistent rhyme scheme or meter—contributes to its natural, conversational tone. This gives the poem a sense of authenticity and immediacy. It mirrors the speaker’s straightforward and confident voice.
- Stanza Structure: The poem is divided into three stanzas. The first introduces the speaker and their initial exclusion. The second focuses on the anticipated future. The third delivers the powerful concluding statement of belonging. This structure reinforces the poem’s narrative arc.
- Tone: The poem’s tone is remarkably complex. It blends resilience, optimism, and a quiet defiance. While acknowledging the pain of discrimination, the speaker maintains a confident and hopeful outlook. This creates a sense of empowerment.
- Repetition: The repetition of “I, too, sing America” at the beginning and end of the poem emphasizes the speaker’s claim to national identity and underscores the central message of inclusion.
Quotes to be Used
The following lines are particularly impactful when addressing issues of racial discrimination or advocating for equality.
Besides,
They’ll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed.
I, too, am America.
These lines powerfully challenge the prejudiced assumptions that lead to discrimination. They assert the inherent dignity and worth of every individual and proclaim the speaker’s rightful place within the American narrative.