The tone of Langston Hughes’ poem ‘I, Too, Sing America’ is one of resilience, pride, and hope. The poem reflects the African American experience and their struggle for equality in a racially divided America. Despite the oppression and segregation faced by African Americans, the speaker in the poem remains confident and optimistic about the future.
The poem begins with a declaration of the speaker’s presence and importance: ‘I, too, sing America.’ This line sets a tone of pride and assertion, emphasizing that the speaker, as an African American, is an integral part of the nation. The speaker acknowledges the current reality of being sent to eat in the kitchen when company comes, but this is not a tone of defeat. Instead, it is one of quiet strength and determination.
As the poem progresses, the tone shifts to one of hope and anticipation. The speaker confidently states, ‘Tomorrow, I’ll be at the table when company comes.’ This line conveys a sense of inevitability and optimism, suggesting that equality and recognition are on the horizon. The final lines, ‘Besides, They’ll see how beautiful I am And be ashamed—’ further reinforce this tone of pride and hope, as the speaker believes that the beauty and worth of African Americans will eventually be recognized and celebrated.
Overall, the tone of ‘I, Too, Sing America’ is a powerful blend of resilience, pride, and hope, capturing the spirit of the African American struggle for equality and the belief in a brighter future.