Langston Hughes

"Because my mouth Is wide with laughter And my throat Is deep with song, You do not think I suffer after I have held my pain So long? Because my mouth Is wide with laughter You do not hear My inner cry? Because my feet Are gay with dancing You do not know I die?"

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Source: Langston Hughes, Dolan Hubbard (2003). “The Collected Works of Langston Hughes: Works for children and young adults: poetry, fiction, and other writing”, p.63, University of Missouri Press

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Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes

Poet, Novelist

Langston Hughes was a prominent American poet and social activist known for his impactful works that explore themes of race, identity, and resilience.

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Langston Hughes Poet, Novelist

"A world I dream where black or white, Whatever race you be, Will share the bounties of the Earth And every man is free."

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Langston Hughes Poet, Novelist

"I, too, sing America. I am the darker brother. They send me to eat in the kitchen When company comes, But I laugh, And eat well, And grow strong. Tomorrow, I'll be at the table When company comes. Nobody'll dare Say to me, "Eat in the kitchen," Then. Besides, They'll see how beautiful I am And be ashamed-- I, too, am America."

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