Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

SONG FOR A DARK GIRL by JAMES LANGSTON HUGHES

Poem Explanation Poet Analysis

First Line: WAY DOWN SOUTH IN DIXIE
Last Line: Love is a naked shadow / on a gnarled and naked tree
Subject(s): AFRICAN AMERICANS; LOVE; LYNCHING; SOUTHERN STATES; NEGROES; AMERICAN BLACKS; SOUTH (U.S.);
Way Down South in Dixie
(Break the heart of me)
They hung my black young lover
To a cross roads tree.
Way Down South in Dixie
(Bruised body high in air)
I asked the white Lord Jesus
What was the use of prayer.
Way Down South in Dixie
(Break the heart of me)
Love is a naked shadow
On a gnarled and naked tree.



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