I, Too, Sing America

by Langston Hughes

Also called “I, Too” this poem was initially called “Epilogue” when it appeared in Langston Hughes' poetry collection, The Weary Blues (1926). Hughes is known for his insightful portrayals of black life in America in the 1920's through 1960's with jazz poetry.

An illustration for the story I, Too, Sing America by the author Langston Hughes

I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.
They send me to eat in the kitchen
When company comes,
But I laugh,
And eat well,
And grow strong.

Tomorrow,
I'll be at the table
When company comes.
Nobody'll dare
Say to me,
"Eat in the kitchen,"
Then.

Besides, 
They'll see how beautiful I am
And be ashamed--

I, too, am America.

I, Too, Sing America was featured as The Short Story of the Day on Mon, Feb 01, 2021

Featured in our selection of Poetry for Students.

Visit American Literature's American History and the African American Library for other important historical documents and figures which helped shape America.

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