Community
Throughout the poem, Hughes vividly portrays the idea of a tight-knit African American community in Harlem coming together to mourn the loss of one of its members. The communal aspect is evident in the collective effort to arrange the funeral from the satin box to the wreath of flowers and the six pallbearers. The poem not only celebrates the bonds within the community but also underscores the significance of shared experiences whether in moments of celebration or grief as central to the fabric of Harlem's cultural and social identity.
The Satin Box
The satin box symbolizes the community's collective effort to ensure that the deceased is laid to rest with grace and care, emphasizing that regardless of economic struggles, the individual's worth and humanity should be recognized and preserved. The satin's smooth, luxurious texture contrasts starkly with the harsh realities of life in Harlem at the time.
Death and Loss
Through vivid imagery and emotional resonance, the poem explores the profound impact of death on the African American community in Harlem. It delves into the raw and complex emotions surrounding a young man's funeral, capturing the collective grief and sorrow of the community. This motif not only reflects the immediate pain of losing a loved one but also suggests a broader commentary on the broader challenges faced by African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance. Hughes masterfully conveys the universality of death while also shedding light on the specific experiences of those within this tightly knit community.
Social Injustice
The motif of social injustice reveals the underlying economic disparities and systemic challenges faced by the African American community during the Harlem Renaissance. The mention of the insurance man not paying and the subsequent lapse of insurance policies for the deceased is a representation of how financial hardship can exacerbate the burdens of death within marginalized communities. This motif highlights the harsh reality that even in death, social injustices persist as individuals struggle to afford a dignified farewell for their loved ones.