IndexThe symbol of "A Raisin in the Sun"The symbol of "A Rotting Wound"The symbol of "A Heavy Load"ConclusionBibliographyLangston Hughes is a renowned figure in American literature, known for her powerful poems exploring the experiences and struggles of African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance. One of his most famous poems, "Harlem," delves into the concept of dreams deferred and the consequences of social abandonment. Throughout the poem, Hughes uses various symbols to convey his message effectively. By analyzing these symbols, we can gain a deeper understanding of the poem's themes and the broader social context in which it was written. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Symbol of “A Raisin in the Sun” One of the most prominent symbols of “Harlem” is the image of a raisin in the sun. This symbolizes the dreams and aspirations of African Americans who have been left to wither and dry up due to the oppressive conditions they face. Raisins represent the unfulfilled potential and dashed hopes of an entire community. In the poem, Hughes asks, "What happens to a dream deferred? / Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?" Here the raisins serve as a metaphor for dreams that have been overlooked and ignored. Just as a grape loses its vitality and becomes shriveled, constantly postponed dreams lose their power and meaning. The use of this symbol is particularly impactful as it creates a vivid image in the reader's mind. The reader can visualize the physical transformation of a raisin and understand the emotional toll that deferred dreams can have on individuals and communities. Hughes effectively uses this symbol to convey the frustration and desperation that many African Americans experienced during the Harlem Renaissance. The symbol of “A festering sore” Another symbol employed by Hughes in “Harlem” is the image of a festering sore. This symbolizes the pain and resentment that comes from the constant denial of opportunity and equality. The poem asks, “Or explode?” referring to the potential explosion of anger and frustration caused by years of oppression. The festering sore represents the underlying tensions and injustices that exist within society. Just like a plague that gets worse and worse over time, the unresolved issues faced by African Americans continue to worsen as their dreams are continually deferred. The symbol suggests that there is a breaking point, a moment when the accumulated pain and frustration becomes unbearable. Hughes' use of this symbol is significant as it highlights the consequences of systemic racism and inequality. By drawing attention to the explosive potential of a festering sore, he highlights the urgency of change and the need to address the injustices faced by African Americans. This symbol serves as a call to action, urging readers to recognize the destructive consequences of neglecting the dreams and aspirations of marginalized communities. The Symbol of “A Heavy Load” Furthermore, the symbol of a heavy load is used by Hughes to represent the burdens that African Americans carry with them as a result of their deferred dreams. The poem asks, “Maybe it sags / like a heavy load,” referring to the weight of unfulfilled aspirations. This symbol highlights the emotional and psychological toll that dream denial takes on individuals. The heaviness of the load indicates the immense pressure and tension that African Americans experience due to the constant setbacks and obstacles they face. This symbol suggests that the burden of dreams deferred, 1995.