I, Too – Langston Hughes

James Mercer Langston Hughes (February 1, 1902 – May 22, 1967) American poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and columnist from Joplin, Missouri. Important writer of the Harlem Renaissance.

I, Too 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.

Theme Deals with racial discrimination Is a strong assertion of the faith of the ‘darker’ American. The goal of the poet is winning equality in society The poem reflects extraordinary optimism.

Points for discussion The predicament of the ‘darker brother’ Hughes speaking not just for himself, but for a race Spirit of defiance in the poem ‘Nobody’ll dare say to me’ Poet’s prophesy of justice and social acceptability in the years ahead

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