Evaluation of Optimism and Power in The Sorrow Songs, by W.e.b. Dubois

Introduction

W.E.B. Dubois was a black scholar of the 18th century who left his mark on society not only through his scholarly achievements but also through the words he wrote for the African American community. His writings empowered them to continue their fight for rights. Among his most powerful works was “The Sorrow Songs” from The Souls of Black Folk (1903). In this paper, I will argue that Dubois’ epigraph from “The Sorrow Songs” was a piece that restored hope and strength to the African American community.

Background

William Edward Burghardt “W.E.B.” Dubois was born on February 23rd, 1868. Growing up in Massachusetts, he experienced a relatively integrated community, which allowed him to pursue education alongside others in his community. He furthered his education at Harvard and became the first African American to earn a doctorate. Dubois carried his degrees and accomplishments to Atlanta University. He was instrumental in founding the NAACP and became a leader of the Niagara Movement. These organizations were pivotal for African American society, which is why Dubois’ words held so much power and recognition within the community.

Analysis of "The Sorrow Songs"

Dubois’ words resonated with African Americans, especially in “The Sorrow Songs.” The epigraph posed a provocative question to the white community: “Would America have been America without the Negro people?” He challenged the reader with questions like “Your country? How came it yours? Before the Pilgrims landed we were here.” This highlighted the African American presence long before the arrival of European settlers.

Dubois discussed the gifts his people brought to these lands, which were unappreciated by the white man who oppressed them. He highlighted the gift of story and song, stifled by an “ill-harmonized and unmelodious land.” The next gift was the sweat and brawn used to build the nation. Dubois wrote, “…the gift of sweat and brawn to beat back the wilderness, conquer the soil, and lay the foundations of this vast economic empire two hundred years earlier than your weak hands could have done it.” This emphasized the labor and effort contributed by African Americans. The final gift was the Spirit, which Dubois felt was taken for granted. He wrote, “…fire and blood, prayer and sacrifice, have billowed over this people, and they have found peace only in the altars of the God of Right.”

Dubois emphasized that despite the injustices suffered, African Americans deserved equal treatment. He wrote, “–we fought their battles, shared their sorrow, mingled our blood with theirs, and generation after generation with a headstrong, careless people to despise not Justice, Mercy and Truth…” This plea for equal rights was a powerful testament to the contributions and sacrifices made by African Americans. He concluded with the question, “Would America have been America without her Negro people?” encouraging readers to reflect on his arguments.

Reflection

In response to W.E.B. Dubois, I agree with his points. African Americans indeed sculpted America into the land it is today. Traces of the gifts Dubois mentioned are still evident. Our stories and folk songs remain integral to our history, dating back to times of enslavement. The physical labor and resilience of African Americans laid the foundation for this nation. Historical evidence shows how resourceful and knowledgeable African Americans were about the land, from natural remedies to the civilizations built before European colonization. Dubois’ words continue to inspire and remind us of the significant role African Americans played in shaping America.

References

Dubois, W.E.B. (1903). The Souls of Black Folk. Chicago: A.C. McClurg & Co.

Gates, H.L., & Oliver, T. (Eds.). (1999). The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. Dubois: An Authoritative Text, Contexts, Criticism. New York: W.W. Norton & Company.