Harlem Renaissance I decided to analyze Countee Cullen’s poetry works and discuss his poem From the Dark Tower, and the critical analysis written by Eugenia W. Collier. The author of the critical analysis says that this poem in particular expresses the true spirit of the Harlem Renaissance. This I agree with, because the themes that are present within the poem are the same associated with the period. The author then begins to ‘translate’ the poem’s articulate symbolism. This includes an in-depth examination of the usage of the planting of seeds and the reaping of fruit. She says that the ‘planting of seeds’ refers to the natural sequence of events, and the hope that is eventually realized. Also, she says that the ‘reaping of fruit’ refers …show more content…
Essentially, they all ask if there is a way to change the status quo, whether through diplomatic means or by force. This portraying the common poem theme of the Harlem Renaissance, this being the protest poem, as says the writer. The writer explains that Cullen probes deeper into the social injustice system, and its victims, those who do all the work but ‘reap’ no reward. I agree with this statement, as well as “The last line of the octave promises eventual change in the words, "We were not made eternally to weep." Yet it implies that relief is still a long way off.” The author also states that Cullen uses contrast in the night sky being dark compared to the blinding brightness of the white stars. I agree with the author that the poem suggests the pride that the African American community felt during the time period, in themselves and their culture. The author states that the line “And there are buds that cannot bloom at all”, suggests that the experiences of the African American community have allowed for the creation of a unique status in American culture, which I also agree with, as well as the author’s grim interpretation of the poem's last two lines. Overall, the interpretations and