Mini Assessment 3 Author's Perspective And Purpose

1. Why does Hughes' say "Freedom is a strong seed/Planted in a great need"?

He is trying to say that to be free, you have to grow trees.

He is trying to say that freedom comes with a price.

He is trying to say that once in a while, you will need to be free.

He is trying to say that freedom is something EVERY man needs.

Hughes' statement "Freedom is a strong seed/Planted in a great need" suggests that freedom is essential and necessary for every individual. By using the metaphor of a seed being planted in a great need, Hughes emphasizes that freedom is not just a desire or luxury, but a fundamental requirement for human existence. The phrase implies that freedom is deeply rooted in the basic needs and aspirations of every person, highlighting its universal importance.

Explanation

Hughes' statement "Freedom is a strong seed/Planted in a great need" suggests that freedom is essential and necessary for every individual. By using the metaphor of a seed being planted in a great need, Hughes emphasizes that freedom is not just a desire or luxury, but a fundamental requirement for human existence. The phrase implies that freedom is deeply rooted in the basic needs and aspirations of every person, highlighting its universal importance.

2. Why did Hughes write this poem about "Democracy"?

He was protesting his living space in the city.

He was trying to say that black people don't have it.

He was trying to show that many people think it's one way, when it's actually the other.

He wanted this to be a statement about what it means to be free.

Hughes wrote this poem about "Democracy" because he wanted it to be a statement about what it means to be free.

Explanation

Hughes wrote this poem about "Democracy" because he wanted it to be a statement about what it means to be free.

3. What does "tomorrow's bread" in the poem stand for?

The hope for more food

The joy of voting

The hope for equal rights

The food of the soul

In the poem, "tomorrow's bread" symbolizes the hope for equal rights. This suggests that the speaker envisions a future where everyone is treated fairly and has the same opportunities. The phrase "tomorrow's bread" implies that this hope is something to look forward to, just like the anticipation of a fresh loaf of bread. It represents the longing for a better future where equality is achieved and serves as a metaphorical sustenance for the soul.

Explanation

In the poem, "tomorrow's bread" symbolizes the hope for equal rights. This suggests that the speaker envisions a future where everyone is treated fairly and has the same opportunities. The phrase "tomorrow's bread" implies that this hope is something to look forward to, just like the anticipation of a fresh loaf of bread. It represents the longing for a better future where equality is achieved and serves as a metaphorical sustenance for the soul.

4. What is Hughes' point of view about being "free" in America?

Freedom will not be handed out, it must be fought for.

Freedom is something that will never happen for black folks.

Freedom is voted on and then handed out to those who care.

Freedom is hand in hand with democracy.

Hughes' point of view about being "free" in America is that freedom is not something that will be given easily or without effort. He believes that it must be fought for, implying that it requires struggle and perseverance to attain true freedom.

Explanation

Hughes' point of view about being "free" in America is that freedom is not something that will be given easily or without effort. He believes that it must be fought for, implying that it requires struggle and perseverance to attain true freedom.

5. The main ideas in the poem support which of the following statements?

If you want something bad enough, just sit and wait for it.

Whatever you want from this life, you have to earn it.

Secrecy creates problems.

If you want it, then go for it and don't wait.

The main ideas in the poem suggest that if you want something, you should take action and pursue it actively instead of waiting for it to come to you. The poem emphasizes the importance of not procrastinating or relying on luck, but rather taking initiative and working hard to achieve your desires.

Explanation

The main ideas in the poem suggest that if you want something, you should take action and pursue it actively instead of waiting for it to come to you. The poem emphasizes the importance of not procrastinating or relying on luck, but rather taking initiative and working hard to achieve your desires.