To Certain "Brothers"
The poem critiques the hypocrisy and moral decay present in society, particularly among those who profess piety and righteousness. The speaker expresses disdain for individuals who present themselves as virtuous while concealing their true, corrupt nature. The imagery of "pious faces" and "mock-welcome, Christian hands" highlights the contrast between outward appearances and inner realities. The use of visceral language, such as "dirt and ugliness" and "rottening hearts," emphasizes the speaker's contempt for the insincerity of these individuals. The work explores themes of authenticity versus facade, the disillusionment with societal norms, and the emotional turmoil caused by such duplicity. The speaker's tone is accusatory and confrontational, revealing a deep-seated frustration with the moral failures of those who claim to be righteous. The metaphor of "wild hyenas howling" suggests a predatory nature lurking beneath the surface, further illustrating the idea that the true character of these individuals is far removed from their public personas. As the poem progresses, it delves into the broader implications of this hypocrisy, questioning the integrity of societal values and the impact of such deceit on the collective conscience. The speaker's call for recognition of these truths serves as a challenge to the status quo, urging a confrontation with the uncomfortable realities that lie beneath the surface of polite society. Ultimately, the work serves as a powerful indictment of the dissonance between appearance and reality, urging readers to look beyond superficiality and confront the moral complexities of human nature. The stark imagery and emotional intensity compel a reflection on the consequences of living inauthentically and the societal structures that enable such behavior.
By Langston Hughes · First published 1945 · Genre: Poetry, Social Critique, Literary Fiction · 67 words
First lines
You sicken me with lies, With truthful lies.
And with your pious faces, And your wide, out-stretched, mock-welcome, Christian hands.
While underneath Is dirt and ugliness, And rottening hearts, And wild hyenas howling In your soul's waste lands.
What this Textopian page supports
To Certain "Brothers" is listed on Textopian as a poem by Langston Hughes, dated 1945 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: 1945 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Critique, Literary Fiction, Protest Literature, Modernism
- Length: 67 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Social Critique — The themes address societal issues, hypocrisy, and moral decay, reflecting a critical view of society.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style and thematic depth align with literary fiction, focusing on character and emotional experience.
- Protest Literature — The text serves as a form of protest against societal norms and injustices.
Tags
Poetry · African American Literature · Social Justice · Racism · Stereotypes · Identity · Family · Brotherhood · Love · Hate · War · Peace