Cross by Langston Hughes (1940)
The poem explores themes of racial identity, heritage, and the complexities of belonging. The speaker reflects on their mixed-race background, expressing a deep sense of conflict and ambivalence towards both sides of their lineage. The opening lines reveal the speaker's acknowledgment of their father's whiteness and their mother's blackness, setting the stage for an exploration of familial relationships and societal perceptions. The speaker grapples with feelings of resentment and regret towards their parents, indicating a struggle with internalized racism and societal expectations. The lines convey a sense of longing for acceptance and a place within a world that often categorizes individuals strictly by race. The speaker's reflections on their parents' deaths highlight the disparities in their lives, symbolizing broader societal inequalities. The concluding lines pose a poignant question about the speaker's own fate, emphasizing the uncertainty and isolation that comes from being of mixed heritage. The poem encapsulates the struggle for identity in a racially divided society, illustrating the emotional turmoil of navigating multiple cultural identities while seeking a sense of belonging. The work ultimately serves as a commentary on the complexities of race and the search for self in a world that often demands clear distinctions.
By Langston Hughes · First published 1940 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, African American Literature · 108 words
First lines
My old man's a white old man And my old mother's black.
If ever I cursed my white old man I take my curses back.
If ever I cursed my black old mother And wished she were in hell, I'm sorry for that evil wish And now I wish her well.
My old man died in a fine big house.
What this Textopian page supports
Cross is listed on Textopian as a poem by Langston Hughes, dated 1940 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Langston Hughes
- Date: 1940 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, African American Literature, Social Commentary, Autobiographical
- Length: 108 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Fusion by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Poem To The Black Beloved by Langston Hughes
- Prayer Meeting by Langston Hughes
- Heritage by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Sinner by Langston Hughes
- I Too by Langston Hughes
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form, utilizing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Literary Fiction — The themes of identity, race, and familial relationships are explored in a nuanced manner characteristic of literary fiction.
- African American Literature — The poem addresses the complexities of race and heritage, central to African American literary themes.
- Social Commentary — The work critiques societal norms regarding race and identity, reflecting on personal and collective experiences.
Tags
Poetry · African American Literature · Symbolism · Identity · Racism · Social Justice · Equality · Freedom · Hope · Despair · Suffering · Resilience