Langston Hughes Poetry Quiz

In Langston Hughes' poem "Dreams," what is the primary metaphor used to describe unfulfilled dreams?

• Raisin in the sun

• A river flowing

• Birds in flight

• Shadows in the night

In the poem "Harlem," what does Hughes suggest happens when dreams are deferred?

• They vanish completely.

• They explode with intensity.

• They quietly fade away.

• They linger and cause discomfort.

In "Dreams," Hughes mentions dreams that "crust and sugar over—like a syrupy sweet." What does this metaphor imply about neglected dreams?

• They become bitter and unpleasant.

• They transform into a sugary illusion.

• They lose their sweetness over time.

• They harden and become difficult to pursue.

What is the central theme of Langston Hughes' poem "Harlem"?

• The beauty of city life

• The consequences of racism

• The complexity of human relationships

• The impact of unfulfilled dreams

How does Langston Hughes explore the theme of the African American experience in "Harlem"?

• Through celebrations and festivities

• Through vivid descriptions of nature

• Through the lens of deferred dreams

• Through historical events and figures

In "Harlem," what does the speaker mean when he asks, "Or fester like a sore—And then run?"

• Dreams can become painful and infectious.

• Dreams can heal over time.

• Dreams can spread rapidly.

• Dreams can be neglected without consequence.

How does Langston Hughes use simile in "Dreams" to convey the impact of unfulfilled aspirations?

• "Like a flower wilting in the garden."

• "Like a river flowing endlessly."

• "Like a bird soaring in the sky."

• "Like a book waiting to be opened."

Which of the following best summarizes the message of Langston Hughes' "Dreams"?

• Dreams are ephemeral and unimportant.

• Dreams should be pursued relentlessly.

• Dreams are unpredictable and mysterious.

• Dreams have consequences when neglected.

In "Harlem," Hughes asks whether a deferred dream "dries up like a raisin in the sun." What does this simile suggest about the consequences of postponed dreams?

• They become small and insignificant.

• They wither and lose vitality.

• They darken and become mysterious.

• They transform into a sweet delicacy.