Question

In Unit 1 you have been learning how societal issues and culture can have an impact on the central idea of a text. Consider the cultural influences and issues related to Langston Hughes’ poem, “I, Too”. What central idea does Hughes develop in this poem? Using the R.A.C.E. writing strategy, construct a paragraph that explains the central idea of the poem, “I, Too” by Langston Hughes and how the poet uses language to develop that idea.

Answer 1

The central idea of Langston Hughes’s poem "I, Too" is the yearning of the racially oppressed people for equality.

Explanation:

In his poem “I, too”, Langston Hughes refuses to accept the prevailing idea that the freedom of America is limited by race. His poem points to the widespread racial oppression of the African Americans in the country. He also talks about the segregation of the black from the white people.    

His poem speaks of the resolve of the oppressed race to find freedom from slavery. Hughes displays an unmistakable racial pride like others active in the Harlem Renaissance.