Poem by Langston Hughes “Ruby brown” what is the poem about? Analyse each stanza
The poem "Ruby Brown" by Langston Hughes is about a woman named Ruby Brown who is strong, confident, and proud of her identity and heritage. The speaker admires her resilience and inner strength, highlighting the beauty of her dark skin and the pride she takes in her African American roots.
Analysis of each stanza:
1. "Ruby Brown, all my own, Ruby Brown, who’s all my own, Strong, brown woman, Born in a southern home."
In this stanza, the speaker introduces Ruby Brown as a strong and confident woman who is proud of her heritage. The repetition of "Ruby Brown" emphasizes her importance in the speaker's life, and the mention of her Southern roots highlights her connection to her African American heritage.
2. "Ruby brown, with hair that’s long, To tell the truth, you’re full of song. proud, independent, strong, Ruby Brown."
The speaker describes Ruby Brown as having long hair and being full of song, which suggests that she is confident and self-assured. The mention of her pride, independence, and strength further emphasizes her strong personality and resilience.
3. "Ruby Brown, with voice that’s sweet, And eyes that are like jewels to meet, With skin like ebony, ruby crown."
In this stanza, the speaker praises Ruby Brown's sweet voice and beautiful eyes, comparing them to jewels. The mention of her skin as "ebony" and her "ruby crown" suggests that she is regal and majestic, with a beauty that stands out.
4. "Ruby Brown, all the world to me, Ruby Brown, proud as proud can be, Ruby Brown is a queen to me."
The speaker declares Ruby Brown as their world, and praises her for being proud and regal. The declaration that she is a queen signifies the speaker's admiration and respect for Ruby Brown's strength and beauty.
Overall, the poem "Ruby Brown" celebrates the beauty, strength, and pride of a confident African American woman named Ruby Brown. The speaker admires her resilience and inner strength, and highlights the beauty of her dark skin and the pride she takes in her heritage.