Imagery In We Wear The Mask By Paul Laurence Dunbar

Masks was not just use for custom to be hidden on Mardi Gras or Halloween. It was the way Mr. Dunbar believe African Americans should live there life as they grow and move forward in life after such a tragedy. During a time writer Paul Laurence Dunbar was born into this world by two former slaves in 1872. Which inspired his lyrical poem “we wear the mask” which was featured in Lyrics of lowly life (1896). The poetry sets in post-civil war with a culture including blacks. With imagery addressing the faces of sons of slaves. Wearing a mask is “that grins and lies” is smiling through the pain that left them with “torn and bleeding hearts.” The author is speaking to this group of minorities to show as if they are happy even though there not. “Why should the world be over-wise” That the world shouldn’t know every detail of their dreadful lives. To use the smile as a mask, this way everybody may be deceived by true feelings. For America to see being free is the best thing that has ever happen to this society. Avoiding any government regrets. No matter how hard the new life may prevail its better than the entrapment of slavery. Hiding the pain and struggles may be the start of rebuilding …show more content…
Which is the pain and suffering we faced over the years. The masks are made symbolize a cover up. Or lies. The mask is worn for survival. They mask can be used for any culture. Example a lot of celebrity's and Hollywood role models is heaven influencing teenagers. The make it seem as if they should act a certain way to be cool. But in reality there is a failure to a knowledge celebrities have problems. Young minds trying to keep up with latest designers and slang when their focus should be helping self and family. Truth is struggles with financial issues or dysfunctional scenery. Masses of our minority have are treated badly in America so they may cover up there frowns with smile to hide the true