Langston Hughes\u2019s \u201cNight Funeral in Harlem\u201d describes the funeral of a poor man. Lacking funds to pay the insurance company, the man\u2019s insurance coverage was terminated. As such, insurance did not fund his funeral. The \u201cpoor boy\u2019s\u201d friends and girlfriend pooled together money in order to ensure the man had a proper memorial. This action conveys love through sacrifice; individuals contributed their own money to properly pay homage to their friend. The final line of the poem notes \u201cIt was all their tears that made That poor boy\u2019s Funeral grand.\u201d This description reflects the idea that material goods do not outweigh feelings of love. The \u201cpoor boy\u2019s\u201d community stands and acts together in solidarity.<\/p>\n
This poem made me reflect on recent events in the United States and how communities come together in solidarity in light of them. For example, approximately one month after the mass shooting in El Paso, Texas, various organizations and activists arranged for El Paso Firme: an event in effort of standing up against white supremacy. The event was held in a local El Paso park; however, the town of Buffalo, New York simultaneously held a rally and march to demonstrate solidarity with El Paso Firme. This gesture serves as a reminder that in the aftermath of an atrocity, communities can band together to find strength.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Langston Hughes\u2019s \u201cNight Funeral in Harlem\u201d describes the funeral of a poor man. Lacking funds to pay the insurance company, the man\u2019s insurance coverage was…<\/p>\n