Explain the use of repetition of the pronoun "I". The poem is "Negro Speaks of Rivers"

by Langston Hughes.

He repeats "I" because he identifies with Africans of all times in history. Huges is speaking for all Negroes.

In the poem "Negro Speaks of Rivers" by Langston Hughes, the repetition of the pronoun "I" serves multiple purposes. Here's a step-by-step explanation of its use:

1. First and foremost, the repetition of "I" emphasizes the personal and individual voice of the speaker. By constantly referring to themselves with "I," the poem highlights the unique experiences and perspectives of the African American protagonist.

2. The repetition of "I" also serves to assert the speaker's presence and agency. It signifies a strong self-identity and a desire to be heard, as if reclaiming their voice and asserting their right to tell their story.

3. Additionally, the repetition of "I" establishes a sense of continuity and ancestry. By associating themselves with various historical and natural symbols throughout the poem, the speaker connects their personal experiences to a larger, collective narrative of African American history and culture. This repetition conveys a sense of pride and resilience in the face of adversity.

4. Lastly, the repetition of "I" creates a rhythmic and musical quality to the poem. It contributes to the poem's overall lyrical and flowing tone, enhancing its musicality and reinforcing the idea of a shared cultural heritage.

Overall, the repetition of "I" in "Negro Speaks of Rivers" effectively showcases the speaker's individuality, assertiveness, ancestral connections, and the musicality of the poem.

In Langston Hughes' poem "Negro Speaks of Rivers," the use of repetition of the pronoun "I" serves an important purpose in conveying the poet's message. By repeating "I," Hughes emphasizes the personal connection he feels with the subject matter of the poem and the collective experiences of African Americans throughout history.

To understand the significance of this repetition, it is important to first read and analyze the poem. So, let's take a look at "Negro Speaks of Rivers" by Langston Hughes:

"I've known rivers:
I've known rivers ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins.
My soul has grown deep like the rivers.
I bathed in the Euphrates when dawns were young.
I built my hut near the Congo and it lulled me to sleep.
I looked upon the Nile and raised the pyramids above it.
I heard the singing of the Mississippi when Abe Lincoln went down to New Orleans, and I've seen its muddy bosom turn all golden in the sunset.
I've known rivers:
Ancient, dusky rivers.
My soul has grown deep like the rivers."

In this poem, Hughes uses the repetition of "I" to establish a personal connection between himself (representing the African American experience) and the rivers. By claiming "I've known rivers," Hughes is asserting that his existence and identity are intimately intertwined with the rivers' histories. Each repetition of "I" reinforces the deep-rooted connection between the poet and the rivers mentioned.

Moreover, this repetition emphasizes the longevity and timelessness of the African American experience. By saying "I've known rivers ancient as the world," Hughes suggests that the experiences of African Americans extend back to the beginning of civilization. This repetition challenges the notion that African American history is a recent development and asserts that their roots are deeply embedded in the fabric of human existence.

Overall, the use of repetition of the pronoun "I" in Langston Hughes' "Negro Speaks of Rivers" serves to emphasize personal connection, affirm the historical presence of African Americans, and highlight the depth of their experiences throughout time.