Question

The speaker in these lines from Langton Hughes's poem "I, Too" states that he is "growing strong" eating in the kitchen. Which statement best describes the meaning of this declaration?
I am the darker brother. They send me to eat in the kitchen When company comes, But I laugh, And eat well, And grow strong. . .

A. Although he feels ignored by those at the table, the speaker is preparing to take back his position in society.
B. The speaker realizes he does not need those who now sit at the table and therefore focuses on improving himself.
C.Even though he is being rejected by those at the table, the speaker is confident and resilient to adversity.
D. The speaker rejects getting help from those who now sit at the table and realizes that he must fend for himself.
E. Despite being relegated to the kitchen, the speaker still feels he is treated fairly as he is provided with a position in society.

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer is letter A. Although he feels ignored by those at the table, the speaker is preparing to take back his position in society.

Explanation:

The poem "I, too", by author Langston Hughes, revolves around the role of African-Americans in the American society. While they have been subdued by slavery and prejudice, they have also bid their time, gained strength and confidence, and grown ready to fight for their rights.

The speaker of the poem mentions he is sent to eat in the kitchen, for black people should not be around when guests visit. He also says, however, he is getting stronger by doing that, meaning his will to fight is growing bigger. As the poem continues, he states he will soon be the one eating at the table when guests visit, and there will be no shame in being who he is:

I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.

They send me to eat in the kitchen

When company comes,

But I laugh,

And eat well,

And grow strong.

Tomorrow,

I’ll be at the table

When company comes.

Nobody’ll dare

Say to me,

“Eat in the kitchen,”

Then.

Besides,

They’ll see how beautiful I am

And be ashamed—

I, too, am America.