From Many Points of View...

Ever since I was little, America has always been portrayed as a strong and mighty nation. Even though I still believe America is powerful, and a definite symbol of liberty and equality, it has had its fair share of unjust moments. Langston Hughes was a very influential writer and poet during the Harlem Renaissance. In his poem, Let America Be America Again, he describes how people’s values and ideals have significantly changed.  Hughes highlights that even though there has been progress, “there’s never been equality for me, Nor freedom in the homeland of the free” (15-16). I still believe many people still live in bondage, even in our modern, progressive society. On a more patriotic note, Hughes emphasizes that he, is too, very much American in I, Too, Sing America. Hughes emphasizes the importance of the future and how progress will eventually occur. The works of Langston Hughes have slightly changed my mind regarding the American Identity. His works opened my eyes to another side, one full of oppression and inequality. Reading this many years later, I still believe Hughes’ work is still highly relevant. I do believe things can change, and ALL Americans, of all sizes, shapes, and colors, will receive the right to have life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.