Reader-Response Criticism Langston Hughes’ Dream Boogie

Reader-Response Criticism: Langston Hughes’ Dream Boogie T Wilkins ENG 125 Introduction to Literature Instructor M. XXXXXXXXX May 22, 2011 Literature, no matter what the topic of form it comes in, has the ability to raise issues, spark thought/imagination, and/or draw out emotions that have been buried deep within us as people. It is expected, from the authors, that readers will form opinions and criticisms for their works. Be it that the readers’ emotions parallel those of the writer or differ; some thoughts and opinions are expected. While reading through the text for week one I was drawn in by the many different poems throughout†¦but there was one poem that captured my attention more than the others. That poem is/was â€Å"Dream†¦show more content†¦I also felt a little curious as to what Mr. Hughes could have been facing in his own life that would spark the words. My curiosity ultimately inspired me to head out to the library to get the book â€Å"Montage of a Dream Deferred† so that I could get a better feel as to what Mr. Hughes was trying to help his readers feel. 3. Did it involve a desire to escape a past or present association? 4. What motivation or change did my connection with this piece of literature create in my thinking? In my relationships? After completing a little more research of the poem, author, and the time that the piece was written I think, subconsciously, I would be more apt to try and take better advantage of the opportunities afforded to me, and attempt to carve out even more opportunities for my children. I wouldn’t, exactly, use the word â€Å"escape† but I would say that I would try and â€Å"make better†. I would not want a social revert back to the days where it would be impossible for me to live freely without unjust. 5. What connection can I make between this piece of literature and others that I’ve read? 6. Did my â€Å"connection† reinforce things I knew or add new insights? I like to read stories that are realistic so the one connection that I make between this work and others that I have read in the past is that it doesn’t cover up the fact that black people have had to make due with the hand they were dealt. There is no happy ending but theShow MoreRelatedLangston Hughes Research Paper25309 Words   |  102 PagesIn 1919, when Langston Hughes was seventeen years old, he spent the summer with his father, Jim Hughes, in Toluca, Mexico. Langston had not seen his father since he was a small child, and he was excited about making the trip. However, during this visit, no affectionate bond would develop between Langston and Jim. Jim Hughes was a cold, difficult man, who was driven by ambition to make money and achieve respect. He had moved to Mexico to avoid segregation and racial injustice in the United States