I, Too and The Negro Speaks of Rivers

In “I, Too” Langston Hughes uses repetition in the first and last lines to achieve unity and to draw attention to his theme. He also uses diction to convey a hopeful, optimistic tone. In “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” Hughes uses an analogy and repetition to compare the depth of his soul and history to the depth of rivers.

Write a poem of your own about America. Use some of the literary elements Hughes uses in the two poems. As you write, consider the rhythm and flow of your lines and include repetition to increase the unity of your poem. Also try to include an analogy in your poem.