Let America be America is a poem written by Langston Hughes, a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance. The poem speaks to the promises and ideals of America, and the ways in which those promises have not been fully realized for many people. It speaks to the struggles of marginalized groups and their ongoing fight for equality and justice.
In the opening lines of the poem, Hughes writes: "Let America be America again / Let it be the dream it used to be." Here, Hughes speaks to the idea that America was founded on the principles of freedom and opportunity, and that these ideals have been lost or forgotten over time. He calls on America to return to its roots, to be the place where anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve their dreams.
However, as the poem continues, Hughes acknowledges that this dream has not been fully realized for many people. He writes: "The land that never has been yet / And yet must be—the land where every man is free." Here, Hughes speaks to the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in America. He acknowledges that while America has not yet achieved a state of true equality, it is a land that must be, a place where every person is free to pursue their dreams and live their lives without fear or oppression.
Hughes also addresses the specific struggles of marginalized groups in America. He writes: "The land that's mine—the poor white, fooled and pushed apart, / The Negro bearing slavery's scars." Here, Hughes speaks to the ways in which racism and inequality have impacted the lives of black Americans, as well as the ways in which poor white Americans have also been marginalized and left behind.
Throughout the poem, Hughes speaks to the ongoing fight for justice and equality in America. He writes: "O, let America be America again— / The land that never has been yet— / And yet must be—the land where every man is free." Hughes calls on America to live up to its ideals and to be the place where everyone can live freely and pursue their dreams.
In conclusion, Let America be America is a powerful and poignant poem that speaks to the promises and ideals of America, and the ways in which those promises have not been fully realized for many people. It speaks to the ongoing struggles of marginalized groups and their fight for justice and equality. Ultimately, it calls on America to live up to its ideals and to be the land where every person is free to pursue their dreams.