I have discovered in life that there are ways of getting almost anywhere you want to go, if you really want to go.
Langston HughesRead
What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun? ... Or does it explode?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote questions the fate of unfulfilled dreams, suggesting they may deteriorate or lead to a violent release of pent-up frustration.
Langston Hughes's quote explores the consequences of postponed dreams or aspirations. It emphasizes that deferring dreams can lead to stagnation, akin to a raisin drying up, which implies a loss of potential and vitality. Alternatively, the image of an explosion points to the possible intense emotional fallout from neglecting one's passions, highlighting the urgency of pursuing dreams before they deteriorate or erupt unexpectedly.
Themes
DreamsDeferredAspirationsPotentialFrustrationFailure
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a motivational speech to inspire people to pursue their goals actively.
More from Langston Hughes
All quotes βMy writing has been largely concerned with the depicting of Negro life in America.
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I tire so of hearing people say, Let things take their course. Tomorrow is another day. I do not need my freedom when I'm dead. I cannot live on tomorrow's bread.
Langston HughesRead
An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose.
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The calm, Cool face of the river, Asked me for a kiss
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The only way to get a thing done is to start to do it, then keep on doing it, and finally you'll finish it.
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