Dream Deferred
Dream deferred is a phrase from the Langston Hughes poem “Harlem” which was written in 1951 The poem is about the dreams that African Americans had during the period of de jure racial segregation. The phrase “dream deferred” suggests that these hopes may have been held back, put on hold, or have yet to be realized. The poem implies that the longer the dreams are deferred, the greater the likelihood of these hopes evaporating. The phrase speaks to the deep emotions of pain and disappointment that blacks experienced as a result of their limited opportunities and civil rights - a dream deferred.
Dream deferred can be used as an essay topic to explore various issues such as inequality, injustice, racism, and the pursuit of happiness. Here are the five best examples of how dream deferred could be used as an essay topic:
1. The Impact of Social Inequality on the American Dream: This essay could explore the impact of social inequality on the ability of African Americans to achieve their dream. In particular, this essay could examine how racism and other inequalities have stifled their dreams and the psychological impact this has on African Americans.
2. The Racial Wealth Gap in America: This essay could analyze the racial wealth gap in America and its effect on the ability of African Americans to achieve the American dream. It could explore the ways in which the racial wealth gap has led to a diminished social and economic opportunity for African Americans.
3. The Pursuit of Happiness: This essay could explore the pursuit of happiness for African Americans and the obstacles they face. It could argue that a dream deferred is the result of the difficulties African Americans face in the pursuit of happiness.
4. Systemic Racism and the American Dream: This essay could examine the role of systemic racism in preventing African Americans from achieving their dream. It could analyze how racism perpetuates a cycle of poverty, lack of education, and other forms of marginalization that prevent African Americans from realizing their dream.
5. Using the Arts to Express Emotions of a Dream Deferred: This essay could analyze the use of music, poetry, and other forms of art to express the emotions of a dream deferred. It could argue that art has been a powerful tool of expression for African Americans and a means of communicating the sorrow and disappointment of a dream deferred.