Should we accept the world as it is? Harsh realities and all? Langston Hughes certainly didn't think so.

In his poem Tired, he lures the reader in with a soothing recognition of the exhaustion of the modern world. Then quickly uses their attention to deliver a call to action for change and revolution. In this deceptively brief poem, everything that made Langston Hughes a leading figure of

the Harlem Renaissance is showcased. There his ability to illustrate layers of meaning with simple and direct language. His innate gift to commune directly with his audience and, perhaps most importantly his talent for communicating to those from diverse and distinct backgrounds.

• Boy Breaking Glass by Gwendolyn Brooks: https://shows.acast.com/words-that-burn/episodes/boy-breaking-glass
• Tired by Fenton Johnson: https://shows.acast.com/words-that-burn/episodes/tired

Irish Podcast Awards Listeners Choice: https://www.theirishpodcastawards.ie/vote/

Show notes:https://wordsthatburn.substack.com/p/tired-by-langston-hughes?sd=pf

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