One of the most celebrated poems by Langston Hughes, Dream Variations, is a lyrical and emotional poem. Published in 1926 during the Harlem Renaissance, the poem talks about the themes of dreams, identity, and freedom. The poem expresses a longing for freedom, racial equality, and self-acceptance. Hughes mentions the harsh realities faced by Black people in America. Born in 1902, Langston Hughes was a renowned poet, novelist, playwright, and social activist.
To fling my arms wide
In some place of the sun,
To whirl and to dance
Till the white day is done.
Then rest at cool evening
Beneath a tall tree
While night comes on gently,
Dark like me—
That is my dream!
To fling my arms wide
In the face of the sun,
Dance! Whirl! Whirl!
Till the quick day is done.
Rest at pale evening . . .
A tall, slim tree . . .
Night coming tenderly
Black like me.