Freedom

Langston Hughes
October 22, 2025

Freedom

by Langston Hughes

 

Freedom will not come

Today, this year

        Nor ever

Through compromise and fear.

 

I have as much right

As the other fellow has

         To stand

On my two feet

And own the land.

 

I tire so of hearing people say,

Let things take their course.

Tomorrow is another day.

I do not need my freedom when I’m dead.

I cannot live on tomorrow’s bread.

            Freedom

         Is a strong seed

            Planted

         In a great need.

         I live here, too.

         I want my freedom

            Just as you.

Langston Hughes, born in Joplin, Missouri, on February 1, 1901, was an American poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and columnist who was a central figure in the Harlem Renaissance. Visit the Poetry Foundation to learn more about his work and life.