Poetry of the Harlem Renaissance

In 1925, in the midst of the Harlem Renaissance, Alain LeRoy Locke coined the phrase, "The New Negro." It was a time for change, a time for African Americans to discover artistic freedom through mediums such as poetry. Finally, they were able to expose their plights to the world.

Through writing poetry, African Americans were able to share their story in a peaceful and artistic way. During the Harlem Renaissance, poetry put African Americans in the main stream of culture. This made poetry very important. White people finally understood that African Americans have feelings and opinions, and African Americans were beginning to be encouraged to get educations. By joining mainstream culture, African Americans were not just heard, but finally listened to. The poetry they wrote was the start of a shift in culture. A large variety of opinions and political thoughts were mixing. Through their poetry, African Americans proved that they were ready to become responsible citizens and work with people, instead of against them.

Harlem is vicious

Modernism. BangClash.

Vicious the way it's made,

Can you stand such beauty.

So violent and transforming.

- Amiri Baraka (LeRoi Jones)

In Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man, the speeches given by the Invisible Man truly reflect and exemplify the Harlem Renaissance, especially its poetry. The narrator's words were honest and powerful, yet nothing above the average person. He spoke to and for his people, as well as to their oppressors. He described the feelings of being liberated of fear and finally speaking as he felt, speaking what must be spoken. All of the major poets of the Harlem Renaissance relate the same sensations and goals.

For more information, go to: Harlem Renaissance Poetry

Harlem Renaissance Poets: The Heart of the Literary Movement