Table of ContentsThe symbol of a “raisin in the sun”The symbol of a “festering sore”The symbol of a “heavy load”ConclusionBibliographyLangston Hughes is a Renowned figure in American literature, known for his powerful poems that explore the experiences and struggles of African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance. One of his most famous poems, “Harlem,” explores the concept of dreams deferred and the consequences of societal neglect. Throughout the poem, Hughes uses various symbols to effectively convey his message. By analyzing these symbols, we can gain a deeper understanding of the poem's themes and the larger social context in which it was written. Say no to plagiarism. Get a Custom Essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get an Original EssayThe Symbol “A Raisin in the Sun”One of the most important symbols of “Harlem” is the image of a raisin in the sun. This symbolizes the dreams and aspirations of African Americans who have been left abandoned and dried up due to the oppressive conditions they face. The grape represents the untapped potential and dashed hopes of an entire community. In the poem, Hughes asks, “What happens to a dream deferred?” / Does it dry like a grape in the sun? Here, the grape serves as a metaphor for neglected and ignored dreams. Just as a grape loses its vitality and shrivels, dreams that are constantly deferred lose their power and meaning. The use of this symbol is particularly impactful because it creates a vivid image in the reader's mind. The reader can visualize the physical transformation of a raisin and understand the emotional impact that deferred dreams can have on individuals and communities. Hughes effectively uses this symbol to express the frustration and despair that many African Americans experienced during the Harlem Renaissance. The symbol of a “festering sore” Another symbol used by Hughes in “Harlem” is the image of a festering sore. This symbolizes the pain and resentment that comes from the constant denial of opportunity and equality. The poem asks, “Or does it explode?” referring to the potential eruption of anger and frustration caused by years of oppression. The festering wound represents the underlying tensions and injustices that exist within society. Much like a wound that festers and worsens over time, the unresolved issues facing African Americans continue to worsen as their dreams are continually deferred. The symbol suggests that there is a breaking point, a moment when the accumulated pain and frustration becomes too much to bear. Hughes' use of this symbol is significant because it highlights the consequences of racism and systemic inequality. By drawing attention to the explosive potential of a festering wound, it highlights the urgency of change and the need to address the injustices faced by African Americans. This symbol serves as a call to action, urging readers to recognize the destructive consequences of neglecting the dreams and aspirations of marginalized communities. The Symbol of a “Heavy Load” Additionally, the symbol of a heavy load is used by Hughes to represent burdens. that African Americans wear because of their deferred dreams. The poem asks, “Perhaps it sags / like a heavy load,” referring to the weight of unrealized aspirations. This symbol highlights the emotional and psychological toll that dream denial takes on individuals. The heaviness of the load testifies to the immense., 1995.