The tropics in new york poem analysis

"The Tropics in New York" is a poem by Langston Hughes, first published in 1937. The poem is a powerful exploration of the African American experience in the United States, particularly in the urban centers of the North. Here's a detailed analysis of the poem:

Imagery and Setting

The poem begins by setting the scene: "The tropics in New York / Are not the same as in the islands." Hughes is drawing a contrast between the lush, vibrant tropics of the Caribbean and the harsh, concrete jungle of New York City. This contrast is significant, as it highlights the disconnection between the idyllic, exoticized notion of the tropics and the harsh realities of urban life.

The African American Experience

The poem goes on to describe the experiences of African Americans in New York City, using vivid imagery and metaphor. Hughes writes of "the smell of banana leaves" and "the sound of steel drums" in Harlem, but also of "the smell of garbage" and "the sound of sirens" in the city's streets. This juxtaposition of sounds and smells creates a sense of dissonance, highlighting the contradictions and challenges faced by African Americans in the city.

Longing and Disillusionment

Throughout the poem, Hughes expresses a sense of longing and disillusionment. He writes of "the tropics in my heart" and "the islands in my soul," suggesting a deep-seated desire for a connection to his African heritage and the lush, vibrant landscapes of the Caribbean. However, this longing is tempered by the harsh realities of urban life, and the poem ultimately expresses a sense of disappointment and disillusionment.

The Search for Identity

The poem can also be seen as a search for identity and a sense of belonging. Hughes is grappling with the tension between his African American heritage and his urban, American experience. He is seeking a way to reconcile these two identities, and the poem is a powerful expression of that search.

Themes

Some of the major themes of the poem include:

Style and Structure

The poem is written in free verse, with a loose, improvisational structure. Hughes uses enjambment and caesura to create a sense of flow and fragmentation, mirroring the disjointed, urban experience he is describing. The language is rich and evocative, with vivid imagery and metaphor used to convey the poet's emotions and ideas.

Conclusion

"The Tropics in New York" is a powerful and evocative poem that explores the African American experience in the United States. Through its vivid imagery and metaphor, the poem conveys a sense of longing and disillusionment, as well as a search for identity and belonging. The poem is a classic of American literature, and its themes and imagery continue to resonate with readers today.