Let America Be America Again

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Summary

Cover of this title
Let America Be America Again
Langston Hughes

In this poem, the speaker contrasts the ideals of the American Dream, such as liberty, freedom, and equality, with the realities of the time. For minorities, the poor, the lower classes, the immigrants, the African- and Native Americans the Dream is nonexistent. Even though the voice seems disillusioned, it also addresses the hope that the American Dream is soon to come for everyone.

· · 1936

Critical edition

Hughes, Langston. "Let America Be America Again." Collected Poems of Langston Hughes, Vintage, 1995, p. 189. 86 l., ISBN 9780679764083

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In favour of this entry

  • Addresses current affairs
  • Charged with meaning
  • Classic
  • Explores historical contexts
  • Silenced voices