African American Poems Celebrating Mothers: A Tribute to the Strength and Love

Poetry has always been a powerful medium for African American writers to express their experiences, emotions, and cultural identity. When it comes to honoring the incredible role of mothers, African American poets have crafted poignant verses that pay homage to their strength, resilience, and unwavering love. These poems not only celebrate the unique bond between mothers and their children but also shed light on the challenges and triumphs of black motherhood. Here, we present a collection of African American poems that beautifully capture the essence of mothers.

"Mother to Son" by Langston Hughes

"Well, son, I'll tell you:
Life for me ain't been no crystal stair.
It's had tacks in it,
And splinters,
And boards torn up,
And places with no carpet on the floor—
Bare.
But all the time
I'se been a-climbin' on,
And reachin' landin's,
And turnin' corners,
And sometimes goin' in the dark
Where there ain't been no light.
So, boy, don't you turn back.
Don't you set down on the steps.
'Cause you finds it's kinder hard.
Don't you fall now—
For I'se still goin', honey,
I'se still climbin',
And life for me ain't been no crystal stair."

In Langston Hughes' timeless poem "Mother to Son," he beautifully portrays the strength and determination of an African American mother. Through vivid metaphors and descriptive imagery, the poem illustrates the hardships and obstacles faced by the mother throughout her life. Despite the challenges, she imparts invaluable wisdom to her son, encouraging him to persevere and never give up.

"On Being Brought from Africa to America" by Phillis Wheatley

"Twas mercy brought me from my Pagan land,
Taught my benighted soul to understand
That there's a God, that there's a Savior too:
Once I redemption neither sought nor knew.
Some view our sable race with scornful eye,
"Their color is a diabolic dye."
Remember, Christians, Negroes, black as Cain,
May be refin'd and join th' angelic train."

Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American poet, used her remarkable talent to address the issue of slavery and the relationship between religion and race. In "On Being Brought from Africa to America," Wheatley highlights her gratitude for being brought to America, where she discovered Christianity and found salvation. This poem offers a unique perspective on motherhood, as Wheatley's faith and experiences as a former slave shaped her understanding of the world and her role as a mother figure to future generations.

"To a Dark Girl" by Gwendolyn B. Bennett

"I love you for your brownness,
And the rounded darkness of your breast,
I love you for the breaking sadness in your voice
And shadows where your wayward eyelids rest.
Something of old forgotten queens
Lurks in the lithe abandon of your walk
And something of the shackled slave
Sobs in the rhythm of your talk.
Oh, little brown girl, born for sorrow's mate,
Keep all you have of queenliness,
Forgetting that you once were slave,
And let your full lips laugh at Fate!"

Gwendolyn B. Bennett's "To a Dark Girl" challenges societal beauty standards and celebrates the unique attributes of African American women. In this poem, Bennett honors the strength and resilience of black women, including the vital role of mothers. She encourages black girls to embrace their inherent beauty and refuse to be defined by the struggles of the past. This heartfelt tribute highlights the power and grace of African American mothers.

African American poets have continuously used their artistry to honor and celebrate the extraordinary love and strength of mothers. Through their powerful words, these poets have provided a voice to the experiences and emotions of African American motherhood. The poems presented here merely scratch the surface of the vast treasure trove of African American poetry honoring mothers. They serve as a reminder of the profound impact mothers have on shaping lives and communities, and the enduring legacy they leave behind.