Unveiling Oppression: Hughes and Jacobs Explore Freedom

The exploration of oppression takes center stage when examining the literary devices employed in Langston Hughes' poem "As I Grew Older" and Harriet A. Jacobs' story "The Loophole Of Retreat." These works employ personification and symbolism to reflect the unjust use of authority and power that serves as a barrier to personal freedom and fulfillment.

Langston Hughes' "As I Grew Older": Unraveling the Dream

In Langston Hughes' poignant poem, "As I Grew Older," the narrative unfolds around a young black girl whose dreams are gradually fading away.

Struggling for freedom, she finds solace by hiding in the attic, evading the oppressive forces that seek to confine her. Hughes skillfully employs literary devices, including symbolism and personification, to convey the depth of the oppressive experience.

Personification comes to life as Hughes describes the "wall" rising, a metaphorical growth that defies the physical limitations of inanimate objects. This technique subtly emphasizes the insidious nature of the oppressive forces at play. In the subsequent paragraphs, the "wall" transforms into a symbol representing the barriers obstructing the girl's happiness and future.

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It becomes a tangible manifestation of the oppression hindering her pursuit of dreams, casting a shadow over her aspirations.

Harriet A. Jacobs' "The Loophole Of Retreat": Confronting Darkness

Harriet A. Jacobs, in her compelling story "The Loophole Of Retreat," examines oppression through the lens of darkness. The protagonist, confined to a small garret referred to as a "den," grapples with the harsh reality of limited air and unsuitable living conditions. Jacobs introduces conflict by articulating the character's yearning for freedom, emphasized by the poignant words, "I suffered for air even more than for light.

" This declaration underscores the desire for autonomy, independence, and the fundamental right to breathe freely.

The "den" becomes a microcosm of the oppressive environment, mirroring the broader societal constraints that the protagonist seeks to escape. Jacobs, like Hughes, employs vivid literary techniques to convey the emotional and physical toll of oppression, drawing attention to the universal struggle for liberation.

Common Threads: Oppression and Liberation

Both "As I Grew Older" and "The Loophole Of Retreat" resonate with a shared theme of oppression, showcasing the authors' adept handling of literary devices to articulate the challenges faced by their protagonists. Hughes and Jacobs navigate the narrative landscape by employing symbolism and personification to represent the oppressive forces restricting personal growth and freedom.

Moreover, both works share a commonality in their protagonists' endeavors to break through the shackles of oppression. Whether hiding in an attic or grappling with darkness in a cramped garret, the characters exemplify the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. Hughes and Jacobs, through their distinctive styles, convey a powerful message about the indomitable nature of the human will to overcome oppressive forces.

Conclusion: A Unified Struggle for Freedom

In conclusion, the exploration of oppression in Langston Hughes' "As I Grew Older" and Harriet A. Jacobs' "The Loophole Of Retreat" unveils a nuanced understanding of the unjust exercise of authority and power. The authors' adept use of literary devices elevates the thematic exploration, providing readers with a profound insight into the universal struggle for freedom.