Langston Hughes’ poem ‘I, Too’ utilizes a simple yet powerful structure that reflects its themes of resilience and hope. The poem consists of a series of five stanzas, which vary in length, contributing to the rhythm and flow of the piece. Each stanza offers a snapshot of the speaker’s experience in a discriminatory society, emphasizing the journey from oppression to self-assertion.
The structure also features a consistent refrain in the final lines of the stanzas, reinforcing the poem’s message of inevitable recognition and equality. The progression of the stanzas mirrors the speaker’s evolving sense of identity, moving from a state of exclusion to one of confidence and pride. Overall, Hughes’ use of structure enhances the emotional weight of the poem and highlights the central themes of social justice and equality.