As an African American author and anthropologist, Zora Neale Hurston is best known for her novels, particularly Their Eyes Were Watching God. However, many are unaware of her passion for poetry and the impact it had on her life and work. In this article, I will explore Zora Neale Hurston’s background in poetry, analyze some of her poems, discuss criticisms and controversies surrounding her poetry, and highlight her latest poetry publications. Additionally, I will examine her influence on contemporary poets and provide resources for further reading on her poetry.
Introduction to Zora Neale Hurston
Born in 1891, Zora Neale Hurston was a prominent writer and anthropologist during the Harlem Renaissance. She grew up in Eatonville, Florida, one of the first all-black towns in the United States. Despite facing financial struggles, Hurston was encouraged by her mother to pursue her passion for writing. She attended Howard University and later Barnard College, where she studied anthropology and folklore. Her work focused on African American culture, particularly in the South. Hurston’s writing was praised for its rich use of dialect and vivid descriptions of African American life.
Zora Neale Hurston’s background in poetry
While Hurston is best known for her novels and anthropological work, she also had a passion for poetry. She began writing poetry as a child and continued to do so throughout her life. Hurston’s poetry was deeply influenced by her experiences growing up in the South and her interest in African American culture. Her poems often featured themes of love, nature, and spirituality, and were written in a style that blended dialect and standard English.
Analysis of Zora Neale Hurston’s poems
One of Hurston’s most famous poems is “How It Feels to Be Colored Me.” In this poem, Hurston describes her experience as a black woman in America. She writes, “I do not always feel colored. I feel most colored when I am thrown against a sharp white background.” The poem is a powerful commentary on the experience of being black in a predominantly white society. Hurston’s use of vivid imagery and strong language conveys the complexity of her feelings and the struggle of navigating a world that is often hostile to people of color.
Another notable poem by Hurston is “Sweat.” This poem tells the story of a woman named Delia who works hard to support her family, but is abused by her husband. The poem is a powerful commentary on the experiences of black women in the South. It highlights the struggles of poverty and domestic violence, and the resilience of those who endure it. Hurston’s use of dialect and vivid descriptions of the natural world add depth and richness to the poem.
Criticisms and controversies surrounding Zora Neale Hurston’s poetry
Despite her influence on literature and culture, Hurston’s poetry has been subject to criticism and controversy. Some critics argue that her use of dialect is problematic and reinforces negative stereotypes about African Americans. Others argue that her poetry is too focused on individual experiences and does not address larger social and political issues.
However, many of these criticisms have been challenged by scholars and writers who argue that Hurston’s use of dialect and focus on individual experiences is a deliberate aesthetic choice that reflects her interest in African American culture and folklore. They argue that her poetry is an important contribution to the literary canon and should be appreciated for its unique style and perspective.
Zora Neale Hurston’s latest poetry publications
In recent years, there has been renewed interest in Hurston’s poetry. In 2018, the Library of America published a collection of her poems titled “Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick.” The collection features previously unpublished poems and highlights Hurston’s skill as a poet. Additionally, a number of contemporary poets have cited Hurston as an influence on their work, further cementing her place in the literary canon.
Zora Neale Hurston’s influence on contemporary poets
Hurston’s impact on contemporary poetry is significant. Her unique style and perspective have inspired a new generation of writers, particularly those from marginalized communities. Her focus on individual experience and use of dialect has challenged traditional notions of what poetry should look like and what stories it should tell. Additionally, her interest in African American culture and folklore has helped to preserve and celebrate the rich history and traditions of black Americans.
Resources for further reading on Zora Neale Hurston’s poetry
For those interested in learning more about Hurston’s poetry, there are a number of resources available. The Library of America’s collection “Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick” is an excellent place to start. Additionally, the Zora Neale Hurston Trust has a number of resources available on their website, including information about Hurston’s life and work, as well as a selection of her poetry.
summary of findings
It is obvious how Zora Neale Hurston has influenced literature and culture. She has made significant contributions to poetry, even though she is best known for her books and anthropological research. Traditional ideas of what poetry should look like and what stories it should tell have been questioned by her original perspective and style. Her emphasis on personal experience and use of dialect has aided in the preservation and celebration of black Americans’ rich history and traditions. Hurston’s legacy is still an inspiration to authors and readers alike, and her poetry is still a significant part of the canon of literature.
