I know we went over and over and over this poem in class, so there's not a whole lot to be said about it (other than the fact that it's incredible and so emotionally powerful). However, prior to readign the poem, I didn't really have any knowledge of Paul Laurence Dunbar. I don't know if anyone else knew more than I did (I think maybe I've heard the name before...). Anyway, the main thing I'm trying to get across is that I didn't know he was black. That changes the meaning of this poem significantly.
If he was white, he might be talking about society's outcast in general. The odd assortment of misfits that this wonderful world has to offer. They attempt to wear this mask and fit in with regular society (occasionally successfully, often times not so much). But since he's addressing African Americans, the poem's tone shifts drastically. Before, he could have been joking around a little, like "Dude, society totally thinks I'm some weirdo cuz I write poetry... What's up with that?" But it becomes all the more serious when you know the history of the poem and its poet. Anyway, I just thought I'd point that out. It's almost comical if you take it out of its context. Almost.
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