Childhood

“For My People” by Margaret Walker (1942)

Published in Walker’s first collection of poetry, “For My People” is an African American protest poem written in dedication to Black Americans who were enslaved. Written as a tribute for those who suffered, struggled, and faced inequalities and injustices, this poem references many themes Walker wrote about and fought for throughout her career.

“Sorrow Home” by Margaret Walker (1989)

“Sorrow Home” was published in Walker’s new and collected poems in 1989. An important poem to read alongside “Childhood,” “Sorrow Home” illustrates a speaker’s place of birth and where they were raised, highlighting the beauty of nature contrasted against the hatred, sorrow, and difficulties of the area.

“Freedom” by Langston Hughes (1949)

Walker, who was highly influenced by the poetry of Langston Hughes, wrote on similar themes. “Freedom” is an example of the type of poetry that Walker sought to imitate, comment on, or respond to. Walker’s own poetry uses different poetic elements but still draws on themes of freedom, justice, and protest for a better tomorrow.