I, Too

• Theme: The poem explores themes of race, equality, and identity in America.

Key Lines and Their Significance

• "I, too, sing America."

  • Establishes the speaker's claim to American identity.

  • Emphasizes inclusivity despite societal exclusion based on race.

• "I am the darker brother."

  • The speaker identifies as a Black man, suggesting a familial connection to America but highlighting the treatment of Black individuals.

• "They send me to eat in the kitchen / When company comes."

  • Symbolizes segregation and the marginalization of Black Americans. Eating in the kitchen signifies being hidden or excluded from society.

• "But I laugh, / And eat well, / And grow strong."

  • Represents resilience and self-empowerment. The laughter signifies defiance against oppression.

  • Eating well and growing strong imply that despite exclusion, the speaker thrives and is growing in strength and confidence.

• "Tomorrow, I’ll be at the table / When company comes."

  • Indicates hope for future equality and inclusion. It symbolizes a future where Black voices are heard and valued equally.

• "Nobody’ll dare / Say to me, 'Eat in the kitchen,' / Then."

  • Suggests a strong assertion of self-worth and confidence in a forthcoming change in societal attitudes.

• "Besides, / They’ll see how beautiful I am / And be ashamed—"

  • The speaker asserts his beauty and worth, challenging the prejudiced view of society. The anticipation of shame in others indicates a reversal of power dynamics.

Conclusion

• Final Line: "I, too, am America."

  • A powerful statement that solidifies the speaker's belonging and insists that Black Americans are integral to the American identity.