Langston Hughes' poem "A dream deferred", also known in some editions as "Harlem" uses imagery and rhetorical questions in order to bring about meaning and purpose. The author is explaining what could possibly happen when the dreams that we have for ourselves become unattainable – even the simplest dream. He is speaking in the context of the black community in Harlem because their situation is often dire and it is quite difficult for them to escape their reality and achieve a better life for themselves. This poem depicts an unfortunate reality for many of the poverty stricken victims who live in these types of situations. In addition, Hughes uses the following techniques in order to bring his purpose to life.
He uses imagery such as: a
He uses imagery such as: a