The Speaker’s Tone In “Harlem” Is Best Described As

In Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem,” also known as “A Dream Deferred,” the speaker’s tone is thoughtful and a bit sad. Here’s a simple way to understand it:

1. Thoughtful:

The poem starts by asking a question: “What happens to a dream deferred?” This question makes us think about what it means when dreams or goals are put off or delayed. The poem keeps asking more questions like this, making us really think about the answers.

2. Sad and Frustrated:

As the poem goes on, it talks about dreams being delayed using images like a drying raisin, a sore, rotten meat, and a heavy load. These pictures help us feel how sad and tired someone can get when their dreams don’t come true.

3. A Bit Scary:

At the end of the poem, it asks if a delayed dream might “explode.” This makes us think about how serious and scary it can be if someone’s dreams are ignored for too long.

Conclusion:

The tone of “Harlem” is really about making us think and feel the sadness and worry of what happens when dreams are put off. Langston Hughes uses this tone to show how important dreams are and what could happen if they are forgotten.