The Dream Keeper and Other Poems
by Langston Hughes
★★★★
For the record, I’m no poetry expert. When I read collections from poets I’m making an effort to step outside of my comfort zone and challenge myself, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to enjoy them in the same way a connoisseur of the genre would. There are some poems I love, but as a whole, poetry isn’t something I gravitate towards.
That being said, Hughes is undeniably talented. His poems show a deep pride in his African-American roots and it’s easy to understand why his name has become synonymous with the Harlem Renaissance. He gave a voice to the hopes and fears of generations of black Americans who were fighting against segregation.
I’m not the target audience for his work and so I’m sure some of its impact is lost on me. I did love some of the poems, including the title one shown below. Others seemed too simple and slid by me with little effect. I think this collection is a great introduction to his work and I will probably read more from him in the future.
The Dream Keeper
Bring me all of your dreams,
You dreamer,
Bring me all your
Heart melodies
That I may wrap them
In a blue cloud-cloth
Away from the too-rough fingers
Of the world.
4 comments:
I actually run the opposite way when poetry is being discussed. Isn't that horrible? Most of it is all lost on me. I have read a couple books though recently that were written in free verse, and that doesn't seem like poetry at all. This is one area I definitely need to expand my horizons.
The poem you included is beautiful. I'm in the same boat as you when it comes to reading poetry - I'm no expert but I do enjoy poetry collections every now and then. Thanks for bringing this one to my attention.
Beautiful poem! I've always liked reading poetry but never analyzing it. That always seemed to ruin its mystique. Good for you for stepping outside your comfort zone :)
Sandy - Free verse sounds like something I might enjoy a bit more. I'll have to try that.
Brenna - There were some great ones in the book and that made it worth it.
Teacher/Learner - I agree. Over thinking it ruins it for me. I like having an initial reaction and leaving it at that.
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