“Jazz Poem Two” is a thought-provoking poem by Langston Hughes, a prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance. In this piece, Hughes explores the evocative and improvisational nature of jazz music, painting a vivid picture of its essence. The poem delves into the deep connection between jazz and the African American experience, celebrating the genre’s emotional depth, rhythm, and ability to convey the essence of life itself. Read More Class 10 English Summaries.
Jazz Poem Two Summary
Jazz Poem Two Summary in English
Carl Wendall Hines Jr. wrote Jazz poem 1 & 2. For students reference Jazz poem 1 is given under. ‘Yeah, here I am, standing at the crest of the tallest with a trumpet in my hand and dark glasses on. Bearded & bereted 1 proudly stand! But there are no eyes to see me. I send down cool sounds! But there are no ears to hear me. My lips they quiver in aether-emptiness! There are no hearts love who me. Surely though through nights grey fog mist of delusion and dream and the rivers of tears that flow like gelatin Soul-Juice some apathetic bearer of paranoid-ic peyote vision (or some other source of, inspiration) shall hear the song 1 play.
Shall see the beard and beret, shall become inflamed beyond all hope with emotion s everlasting fire and join me in eternal peace. And but yet well who knows ?’ The old Jazz musician was also similar to that of Ancient Mariner in Coleridge s poem. He had no interest or enthusiasm in the present world. He had a pathetic figure, but commanding artist. He had the power to make people listen. This was a gift. He was silent speech but eloquent in music. He was very good at expressing his thoughts through music.
He stood at the crest of the tallest hill. He was old and had a wrinkled face. He had no interest in life. His head was turned downward, he closed his eyes. He wore an old faded blue shirt. That shirt was dark with sweat, the tie was torn. The jacket was old and it could not hold his sagging (hanging) stomach. He wore the old shoes which had papers inside. His face was not shaved. One could see the pain in each wrinkle of his face.
He alone stood with his head down and eyes closed. He wore an old alto saxophone and chanting some religious music in low voice. That old saxophone was hanging from his neck by a wire coat hanger. He wanted to tell that he was a Black Man. He had been sent here to preach the Black Gospel of Jazz. He was preaching it with words by loud musical sound. When he started to preach, he was transformed into a Bird. That Bird gathers its wings and flies high, high and higher until it flies away. Otherwise, he comes back to find himself as a Black man again.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Langston Hughes’ “Jazz Poem Two” is a vibrant and rhythmic celebration of the power of jazz music, reflecting the African American cultural experience. The poem captures the dynamic and emotional essence of jazz, highlighting its ability to mirror the complexities of life and human emotions.
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