Compare and contrast the structure and use of figurative language in the two poems “Harlem” by Langston Hughes and “We Wear the Mask” by Paul Laurence Dunbar.
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To compare and contrast the structure and use of figurative language in the poems "Harlem" by Langston Hughes and "We Wear the Mask" by Paul Laurence Dunbar, you would need to closely analyze both poems and identify the literary devices and techniques that each poet employs.
1. Read the poems: Begin by reading and familiarizing yourself with both poems. Take note of the themes, messages, and overall tone of each poem.
2. Identify the structure: Analyze the structure of each poem. Look for similarities and differences in the organization, such as the number of stanzas, the rhyme scheme, and the overall flow. "Harlem" consists of eleven irregular quatrains, while "We Wear the Mask" is written in three regular quatrains followed by a couplet.
3. Examine figurative language: Pay close attention to the figurative language used in each poem. Look for similes, metaphors, personification, and other literary devices. Consider how these devices enhance the meaning and impact of the poems.
In "Harlem," Langston Hughes incorporates figurative language to emphasize the deferred dreams of African Americans. For example, the simile “Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?” compares deferred dreams to a dried-up raisin, conveying the withering and unfulfilled nature of these dreams. Additionally, Hughes uses metaphors, such as “festering sore” and “rotten meat,” to convey the negative consequences of unfulfilled dreams.
In "We Wear the Mask," Paul Laurence Dunbar uses metaphorical language to explore the theme of masks and the hidden pain that people often conceal. For instance, the opening lines, “We wear the mask that grins and lies,” convey the idea of wearing a cheerful facade while hiding one's true emotions. Dunbar continues to employ metaphors, such as “torn and bleeding hearts” and “mouth with myriad subtleties,” to evoke the emotional burden carried by those who wear masks.
4. Compare and contrast: Finally, compare and contrast the use of figurative language in both poems. Look for similarities and differences in the types of figurative language used, the themes they convey, and the impact they have on the reader. Consider how each poet's unique style contributes to the overall tone and message of their respective poems.
By closely analyzing the structure and use of figurative language in "Harlem" by Langston Hughes and "We Wear the Mask" by Paul Laurence Dunbar, you can effectively compare and contrast these two poems and gain a deeper understanding of their literary significance.