Hughes vs. Whitman. . .

Question: What is the relationship between Hughes's "I, too" and Whitman's "I hear America Singing"? How does Hughes respond to Whitman's conception of America?

1. While reading I felt a sense of connection towards these two particular readings. This semester I am also taking HIS411, which is African American Women in history. Both of these readings allowed me to apply it to both history and English in the sense of capturing the era of slavery. However, both White and African American views were seen within these separate readings that made me become more drawn into their underlying meanings. Within my reaction to these readings, I was overwhelmed with the feeling that these two readings, are a portrayal of life even today as we base our socio economic status on our future success. With this concept, today it is believed that if you are born into poverty the likelihood of you staying within poverty remains high, whereas back then if you are born into slavery you remain in slavery.

2. The relationship between Hughes's "I too" and Whitman's "I Hear America," was viewed as achieving the American Dream. Whitman basically is saying that everyone can achieve this goal as individuals sing there own individual dreams. However, Hughes contradicts this view as he is stating "You are right, you can achieve the American Dream and your people, however today my people and I can not, tomorrow yes but not today." Both individuals are stating that the "American Dream" is obtainable however based on race it is more obtainable to some then others. Again, this reverts to the slavery era, in which Hughes compares the American dream to eating at a table, which he is not allowed to do based on race. Within this American Dream concept, we strive as individuals to move forward in our lives as we prosper within our occupations. However, how can we move forward in our lives if we are simply constricted through our society. The interest within these two readings were found through its connection through today, no longer are we slaves, but we can be viewed as slaves through society in which we can not overcome the physical domains that do not allow us to obtain this American Dream. But, like Hughes said "tomorrow I'll be at the table when company comes. . ., besides they'll see how beautiful I am and be ashamed.