A black man talks of reaping by Arna Bontemps. What does the line my children glean in fields? They have not known and feed on bitter fruit from a black man talks of reaping suggest.
In the poem "A Black Man Talks of Reaping" by Arna Bontemps, the line "my children glean in fields? They have not known and feed on bitter fruit" suggests a metaphorical representation of the struggles and hardships faced by African Americans. The speaker, being a black man, is referring to his children (and likely other black individuals) who are forced to work in fields, just like their ancestors did during slavery.
The phrase "glean in fields" symbolizes the ongoing labor and toil endured by African Americans, who still have to face discrimination and inequality. The mention of "bitter fruit" refers to the fact that despite their efforts, they continue to face adversity and discrimination, often not receiving the fair and just rewards for their hard work.
Overall, this line signifies the intergenerational perseverance and resilience of African Americans in the face of ongoing challenges and injustices.