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Langston Hughes The American Dream Analysis

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Langston Hughes: Harlem Aberration vs. “The American Dream” America was enveloped with the positive, energetic aura of the American Dream during the 1920s. Immigrants from other countries worked tirelessly so they could get a piece of this time of prosperity. The downside to the American Dream was the continued segregation of whites and the other minorities present in America. Langston Hughes, a prominent black figure at this time, voiced his dismay for the dream by realistically conveying the unattainable dream for minorities. The closest thing to a dream for blacks at this time was Harlem, and he showed his love for the city in his inspiring poems. Langston Hughes’ “The Heart of Harlem” was the poet’s love letter to the paramount hotspot of creativity that was Harlem, New York; it was the African Americans perception of the dream. “The Heart of Harlem” was a tribute to Harlem’s unique personalities. Hughes, born in Missouri, moved to Harlem to experience the revival of art and culture known as the Harlem Renaissance. Harlem was already littered with artistic talent, from the unparalleled voice of Billie Holiday, to the inspiring message of Father Shelton Bishop. Hughes pays respect to the people who revived a generation in his poem: “It’s Joe Louis and Dr. W. E. B., A stevedore, a porter, Marian Anderson, and me” (Hughes …show more content…

During this time of unfairness and prejudice, minorities across the country were oppressed. Harlem provided a fair, civil escape from the “American Dream” that had come to dominate their lives. As America flourished, African Americans floundered as this bridge between whites and minorities increased. The citizens that courageously persevered through these times of hardships changed the landscape of a nation for generations. America’s true dream has been realized, and peace permeated through the nation of

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