It's all a farce, - these tales they tell About the breezes sighing, And moans astir o'er field and dell, Because the year is dying.
Paul Laurence DunbarRead
I hope there is something worthy in my writings and not merely the novelty of a black face associated with the power to rhyme that has attracted attention.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a desire for the significance of oneβs work to be appreciated beyond superficial traits.
Paul Laurence Dunbar's quote highlights the importance of substance in writing, emphasizing that he hopes his literary contributions are valued for their worth rather than the novelty of his identity as a Black poet. He calls attention to the tendency for superficial attributes to overshadow true talent and meaningful expression, advocates for genuine recognition of artistic merit, and challenges societal biases in literature.
Themes
WritingIdentityArtRecognitionSubstance
In practice
Example use cases
A poet presenting their work at a literary festival might share this quote to emphasize the depth of their craft.
More from Paul Laurence Dunbar
All quotes βA crust of bread and a corner to sleep in. A minute to smile and an hour to weep in. A pint of joy to a peck of trouble, And never a laugh but the moans come double. And that is life. A crust and a corner that makes love precious, With a smile to warm and tears to refresh us, And joy seems sweeter when cares come after, And a moan is the finest of foils for laughter. And that is life.
Paul Laurence DunbarRead
I know what the caged bird feels, alas!
Paul Laurence DunbarRead
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