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Peace
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Langston Hughes (1902-1967) was a prolific American poet, social activist,
novelist, playwright, and columnist. He was one of the earliest
innovators of the literary art form known as jazz poetry and a
prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement in
the 1920s and 1930s that celebrated African American cultural and
artistic expression. Background of "Peace" The poem "Peace" reflects Hughes' recurring themes of racial equality, social justice, and the human condition. The poem meditates on the futility of war and the indifference of death to the victors and the vanquished. The graves symbolize the ultimate equality in death, where distinctions between winners and losers become meaningless. Date of Writing The specific date of the writing of "Peace" is not widely documented, but it reflects themes consistent with Hughes' work during the mid-20th century, particularly around the time of World War II and the early Civil Rights Movement. Hughes often wrote about themes of war, peace, and social justice during these periods. Other Notable Works by Langston Hughes "The Negro Speaks of Rivers": One of his most famous poems, written when he was 17. "Montage of a Dream Deferred": A book-length poem suite published in 1951, focusing on the dreams of African Americans. "Let America Be America Again": A poem that addresses the American Dream and the realities of American life for the marginalized. Story Behind "Peace" While there isn't a specific, documented story behind the creation of "Peace," it is important to consider Hughes' context and influences. He wrote during a time when the world was grappling with the aftermath of World War II and facing the rising tensions of the Cold War. Hughes' poetry often reflected his observations of racial and social injustices, and "Peace" likely emerged from his contemplation of the human cost of conflict and the longing for a more just and peaceful world. Hughes' works were deeply influenced by his own experiences and the sociopolitical climate of his time. His ability to capture the essence of the human spirit in the face of adversity made him a vital voice in American literature. |