How does the speaker employ language in the advancement of the poem Harlem?
The speaker in the poem "Harlem" by Langston Hughes employs vivid and evocative language to effectively convey the emotions and experiences of African Americans living in Harlem during the 1950s. The speaker uses imagery, metaphor, and simile to paint a picture of the frustration and hopelessness felt by the residents of Harlem as their dreams are continually deferred.
The speaker uses powerful language to describe the impact of deferred dreams on the individuals living in Harlem, comparing the deferred dreams to a "festering sore" or "rotten meat." These images evoke a sense of decay and stagnation, highlighting the negative consequences of unfulfilled aspirations.
Additionally, the speaker uses metaphor to explore the idea of deferred dreams as a heavy burden, comparing them to a "heavy load" that weighs down the residents of Harlem. This metaphor conveys the sense of oppression and hardship experienced by those who are unable to achieve their dreams.
Overall, the speaker's use of rich and evocative language in "Harlem" serves to convey the profound sense of frustration, disillusionment, and despair felt by African Americans living in Harlem during this time period. By employing vivid and powerful language, the speaker effectively captures the emotional impact of deferred dreams on individuals and communities.