Dreaming Black Boy

CXC : A WORLD OF POETRY

Poems for comparison	Page numbers	Author	Type	Scheme
Dreaming Black Boy	108	James Berry(1924)	Lyric	Free verse
Theme For English B	105	Langston Hughes	Narrative	Free verse
Epitaph	110	Dennis Scott	Elegy	Free verse

These poems have similar themes. They express discrimination and the intolerance in human relationships. Also, they reflect the denial of the basic human rights, which are: RECOGNITION, JUSTICE, EQUALITY AND FREEDOM.

The three poems are TREATED differently.

In ‘Dreaming Black Boy’ the persona (the boy) expressed his thoughts and emotions in ABSTRACT IMAGES. His dreams and wishes for the RIGHTS that should be given to all human beings, such as recognition and love or freedom of movement and expression/speech.

The images appeal to the emotions and the reader empathizes with the boy who is being denied rights.

The poem is written in blank verse. This makes the TONE of the poem conversational. The central injustice- it manifest itself as RACISM/RACIAL DISCRIMINATION.

The boy/persona suffers:

• Racism
• Alienation
• Disappointment
• Fear

Racism damages relationships (between people/ between races)

Dreams/Wishes:

a) Opportunity to compete

b) Recognition of his humanity & achievements,

Warmth and caring

c) Freedom to play and enjoy life

d) To forget the past (his ancestors & slavery)

e) For an opportunity to be educated

f)   Freedom of movement (to travel the world)

Freedom of expression/Speech

The persona’s attitude is hopeful BUT he understands the danger presented by racism and it causes him emotional suffering.