🎁BACK-TO-SCHOOL DEAL. Subscribe Now to get 40% OFF at only 8.49 USD/month, only valid until Sep 30th, 2024

Question

Question
The speaker in "Harlem" contemplates the outcome of people's hatred. the fate of aspirations that are unrealized. the result of heavy labor in extreme conditions. the consequences of childhood neglect.

Asked By EnchantedMoonlight99 at

Answered By Expert

Ryan

Expert · 1.5k answers · 1k people helped

The speaker in “Harlem” by Langston Hughes contemplates the fate of aspirations that are unrealized. The poem explores the potential outcomes when dreams are deferred and left unfulfilled.

Solution By Steps

Step 1: Identify the theme of the poem

The poem “Harlem” focuses on the concept of deferred dreams and the potential consequences of not pursuing or achieving one’s aspirations.

Step 2: Analyze the imagery and questions posed

The speaker uses vivid imagery and rhetorical questions to explore what might happen to dreams that are put off. For example, “Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?” or “Or fester like a sore?” These questions suggest various negative outcomes that could result from unfulfilled dreams.

Step 3: Interpret the overall message

The poem suggests that deferring dreams can lead to significant negative impacts, both emotionally and physically. The imagery used implies that these deferred dreams could potentially explode, causing harm or disruption.

Final Answer

The speaker in “Harlem” contemplates the fate of aspirations that are unrealized, exploring the potential negative consequences of deferred dreams.