O, yes, I say it plain, America never was America to me, and yet I swear this oath - America will be!

O, yes, I say it plain, America never was America to me, and yet I swear this oath - America will be!

Langston Hughes, a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, was known for his powerful and thought-provoking poetry that addressed issues of race, identity, and the American Dream. One of his most famous poems, "Let America Be America Again," captures the struggle and hope of marginalized communities in America.

In the opening lines of the poem, Hughes writes, "O, yes, I say it plain, America never was America to me." Here, Hughes is expressing his disillusionment with the promise of America as a land of freedom and opportunity. As an African American man living in a society plagued by racism and inequality, Hughes felt that the American Dream was out of reach for people like him. He saw firsthand the injustices and hardships faced by black Americans, and he knew that the idealized version of America portrayed in the media and popular culture did not reflect the reality for many.

Despite his disillusionment, Hughes does not give up hope. He declares, "and yet I swear this oath - America will be!" This line is a powerful statement of resilience and determination. Hughes acknowledges the flaws and shortcomings of America, but he also believes in the possibility of change and progress. He envisions a future where America lives up to its ideals of equality, justice, and freedom for all its citizens.

Hughes' words resonate with many people who have faced discrimination and oppression in America. His poetry speaks to the struggles and aspirations of marginalized communities, offering a voice of resistance and hope in the face of adversity. By declaring his faith in a better future for America, Hughes inspires others to continue fighting for a more inclusive and equitable society.