Harlem
Questions about "Harlem":
1. This poem is about Langston Hughes’ community in Harlem. What impression do you get of Hughes’
community in this poem?
2. Based on this poem, do you think life in Hughes’ community is easy or hard? Why?
3. Why do you think Hughes titled this poem “Harlem: A Dream Deferred”?
4. Do you think this poem could be used to describe your community today? Why or why not?
Dream Variations
Questions:
Directions:
Complete the worksheet by reading the attached poem, and answer the questions below in a brief paragraph.
1. At the end of the first stanza, Langston Hughes exclaims: “That is my dream!” In your own words describe
what Langston Hughes’ dream is.
2. In both poems that you have read today, Langston Hughes talks about dreams. How is his discussion of dreams
in this poem different from his discussion of dreams in the first poem?
3. Based on this poem, do you think Hughes is satisfied with life in his community? Why or why not?
4. What goals do you think Langston Hughes had for his community?
5. Would you want to live in the world described by Hughes? Why or why not?
Read Ballad of the Landlord
In a paragraph, discuss what you think Hughes intended the reader to understand after reading this poem. What does it mean to you? Why? Explain by referring to specific lines from the poem.