Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Motto," Langston Hughes encapsulates a philosophy of life that is grounded in a relaxed, yet perceptive approach to living. The poem, with its breezy and conversational tone, reflects Hughes' understanding of the cultural rhythms and social dynamics within the African American community, particularly during the Harlem Renaissance, when "coolness" and an appreciation for the nuances of social interactions were vital.

The opening lines, "I play it cool / And dig all jive," establish the speaker’s attitude towards life. To "play it cool" suggests a demeanor of calmness, nonchalance, and perhaps a bit of detachment—an approach that allows the speaker to navigate life's challenges without being overwhelmed. This coolness is not about apathy but rather about maintaining composure and perspective in the face of whatever life throws their way. The phrase "dig all jive" extends this idea, indicating that the speaker not only maintains this coolness but also appreciates or understands the various "jive"—the talk, the social interactions, the cultural expressions—that come their way. "Dig" in this context means to understand, appreciate, or enjoy, while "jive" refers to the lively, often playful talk or behavior that was characteristic of the jazz culture and the African American vernacular of the time.

The lines that follow, "That's the reason / I stay alive," reveal the speaker's belief that this approach to life—remaining cool and perceptive—is not just a style but a survival strategy. Hughes suggests that in a world that can be unpredictable and challenging, especially for African Americans, the ability to navigate social dynamics with a sense of ease and understanding is crucial for survival. This "coolness" is a form of resilience, a way of staying alive both physically and spiritually in a society that often seeks to marginalize or oppress.

The poem then shifts to a more reflective tone with the lines, "My motto, / As I live and learn, / IS: / Dig And Be Dug / In Return." Here, Hughes presents the speaker’s guiding principle—a reciprocal understanding and appreciation. "Dig" in this context is again used to mean understand or appreciate, while "be dug" suggests being understood or appreciated in return. The speaker’s motto is one of mutual respect and recognition, emphasizing the importance of both giving and receiving in social interactions. This reciprocity is key to the speaker's philosophy: to navigate life successfully, one must not only understand others but also allow oneself to be understood.

The structure of the poem is simple, with short, direct lines that reflect the straightforwardness of the speaker's motto. The rhythm of the poem, with its casual and laid-back flow, mirrors the coolness that the speaker advocates. The use of the word "motto" suggests that this philosophy is not just a passing thought but a deeply held belief, one that guides the speaker's actions and interactions.

"Motto" is a poem that, while brief, offers a profound insight into the way Hughes viewed social life. The speaker's philosophy of "Dig And Be Dug In Return" can be seen as a call for empathy, mutual respect, and understanding within the community. In a broader sense, it reflects Hughes’ belief in the importance of cultural exchange and the value of appreciating the richness of the human experience, especially within the context of the African American community.

Through this poem, Hughes conveys that living a fulfilling life requires a balance of coolness and connection. The speaker's cool demeanor allows them to navigate the complexities of life without losing themselves, while their commitment to mutual understanding ensures that they remain connected to others. "Motto" captures the essence of a lived philosophy that values both self-preservation and the richness that comes from truly engaging with others. It is a reminder that in a world full of challenges, the ability to stay cool, appreciate, and be appreciated in return is not just a survival strategy but a way to thrive.

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