Monthly Theme: Mother and Child
Weekly Content: African American Art & Poetry
Daily Subject: Poetry
Our next poet’s work gives voice to the artwork we observed last week. Please click on the link below to read “Mother to Son” by Langston Hughes.
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For Baby…
It seems like the mother in the poem is talking to a grown child. However, after thinking about it, I thought it would be a good read for any age group. One of the most important skills in becoming an avid reader is understanding the importance of showing emotion in your voice as you read. This poem is very powerful and will have you bursting with emotion as you read it to your baby. I truly believe that fundamental reading skills can be shaped even before a child can actually read (or talk). I love hearing my 1 year old “reading” his books. I watch as he flips through the pages (often upside down) imitating the intonations he hears when I read to him. Reading to your baby with almost exaggerated expression will teach him/her that changing the pitch and tone of your voice has meaning.
For Mommy…
A successful poet and writer in the 1920s through the 1960s, Hughes’ poetry chronicles the foundations and hardships of the civil rights movement. A social activist, Hughes was determined to use his work to showcase the life of the average African American. Take a peek at his biography at the Poetry Foundation to see how his work caused controversy with other prominent African American figures of his time.
“Mother to Son” reminds me of the concept of genetic memory. I know there is much controversy over whether such a concept exists, but, more specifically, I’m referring to the way in which parents pass along their own life experiences to their children. I’m thinking of that quote, usually attributed to Sir Isaac Newton, that we are “standing on the shoulders of giants.” Isn’t our job as parents to impart our understanding and experiences of the world to our children?
The Sharp Mama 