What is the tone in the poem The Negro Speaks of Rivers?

Answer 1

Langston Hughes' "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" is a somber poem.

But there is no one certain way of saying what a poem's tone is to you. To determine that, you have to read the poem several times over, and perhaps even try to imagine the poet speaking directly to you. Ask yourself, what is this person's attitude? What is he trying to get across to me?

"Tone" is difficult to describe. In the whine of a child's voice, we hear it immediately, but in writing, it is sometimes a little more difficult to decipher. However, if you think carefully, and examine closely, there will usually be clues in the language, to help you determine the tone.

For example, start with some basic questions. Does this seem like a happy poem to you? A poem of celebration? Of triumph?

When Hughes says, "I built my hut," he is not saying "mansion." He uses the word "hut." He mentions building the Pyramids, but does not that bring to mind slave labor? When he says "dusky" rivers, what kind of a mood is that?

And yet, there is pride in the poem, also. In general, ask yourself how you feel after having read the poem several times. For you, that is the tone.

Answer 2

Langston Hughes' "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" is a somber poem.

But there is no one certain way of saying what a poem's tone is to you. To determine that, you have to read the poem several times over, and perhaps even try to imagine the poet speaking directly to you. Ask yourself, what is this person's attitude? What is he trying to get across to me?

"Tone" is difficult to describe. In the whine of a child's voice, we hear it immediately, but in writing, it is sometimes a little more difficult to decipher. However, if you think carefully, and examine closely, there will usually be clues in the language, to help you determine the tone.

For example, start with some basic questions. Does this seem like a happy poem to you? A poem of celebration? Of triumph?

When Hughes says, "I built my hut," he is not saying "mansion." He uses the word "hut." He mentions building the Pyramids, but does not that bring to mind slave labor? When he says "dusky" rivers, what kind of a mood is that?

And yet, there is pride in the poem, also. In general, ask yourself how you feel after having read the poem several times. For you, that is the tone.

Answer 3

The tone in Langston Hughes's poem "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" is contemplative and reflective. The speaker discusses the ancient connection between African Americans and rivers, highlighting a sense of pride and deep-rooted history. The tone is one of reverence for the past and a celebration of resilience.