‘Dreams’ by Langston Hughes
Summary
In the poem, the word “dreams” is personified. The life of dreams stands in stark contrast with the images of death that follow. The poem’s impact comes from its figurative language. The personification and imagery have already been mentioned. A metaphor appears in each verse of the poem. Life without a dream is compared to a broken-winged bird in the first line. The life of a broken-winged bird is pointless and without purpose. Similarly, a life without dreams is meaningless. In the second verse, a life without dreams is compared to a bleak, snow-covered field. A field is built with the intention of sustaining life. A barren field serves no useful purpose. A life is created in the same way to provide and bring life to others. A life devoid of dreams is meaningless.
Theme of the poem ‘Dreams by Langston Hughes’
In the poem, the poet emphasises the significance of dreams in our lives. Dreams are an important part of our lives that we must address. Life has no significance without dreams. A life without a dream can’t possibly be successful. Life without dreams is a barren wasteland where nothing may be hoped for.