Poem Analysis - Wealth

A Celebration of Altruism

Langston Hughes's "Wealth" is a concise yet powerful declaration of the superior value of goodness and love over material possessions. The poem possesses a reverent and affirmative tone, celebrating individuals who embody selflessness. There is no shift in mood; the poem maintains a consistent tone of admiration and conviction throughout, culminating in a simple, almost childlike pronouncement of love's intrinsic worth.

Echoes of Compassion: Exemplars of Love

The poem develops the theme of true wealth residing in acts of compassion, not in material riches. Hughes cites historical and religious figures known for their altruism – Christ, Gandhi, and St. Francis of Assisi – as prime examples. By invoking these figures, the poem suggests that their legacy, built on love and service, represents a more enduring and meaningful form of wealth than any earthly power or possession.

Imagery: Halos vs. Crowns

The imagery in "Wealth" strongly contrasts spiritual virtue with material opulence. "Halos of kindness" are presented as "brighter" than "crowns of gold" and "rich diamonds." This visual contrast emphasizes the idea that inner goodness outshines external symbols of status and power. The halo, traditionally associated with holiness, symbolizes the inherent worth and radiant effect of kindness, making it far more valuable than the superficial glitter of gold and diamonds.

The Power of Simplicity: Dew of Love

A central theme in the poem is the power of love. Love is presented not as a grand, overwhelming force, but as something simple and natural, symbolized by "the simple dew / Of love." The dew is a particularly effective image because it is commonplace, life-sustaining, and beautiful in its own right. Hughes uses the dew as a powerful symbol, evoking the idea that love’s true value lies in its simplicity and its ability to nourish and sustain life. The speaker draws an analogy between dew drops and love to promote the idea that love is not a grand, elusive concept but a simple, attainable, and universally accessible force.

Love's Enduring Legacy

In conclusion, "Wealth" is a powerful statement about the enduring value of goodness and love. By contrasting the "grandeur" of kindness with the "might of kings" and the brilliance of diamonds, Hughes argues that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the selfless acts of compassion. The poem’s final image, the "simple dew / Of love," encapsulates this message, reminding us that even the smallest act of kindness can shine brighter than any earthly treasure.