Heritage

The poem “Heritage” was written by Countee Cullen, an African American poet of the Harlem
Renaissance. The poem begins with the speaker expressing a longing to know more about his
African ancestry and the culture that was lost due to the slave trade. “What is Africa to me”
Africa symbolizes the homeland and represents their roots, identity, and connection to their past.
He describes the Copper sun and scarlet sea These vivid images evoke a sense of richness and
warmth associated with the continent. Jungle star and jungle track convey a sense of mystery,
exploration, and the exotic nature of the Africa. He celebrates the African cultural and structural
achievements like the pyramids that are left behind.Then he describes The Sphinx, a mythical
creature with the head of a human and the body of a lion that symbolizes the enigmatic nature of
Africa’s past.
On the other hand the words “Terror and pain” reflect harsh realities of slavery and the painful
history that African Americans have endured. They represent the scars left by the past and the
lasting impact it has had on the speaker’s heritage. The poet's depiction of America can be seen
through contrasting lenses, reflecting both the promises and challenges of the nation. On one
hand symbolized by the mighty cities, bustling industry, and promises of freedom and progress.
On the other hand the poet also examines the darker aspects of America, particularly the history
of slavery and oppression, experienced by African-Americans.
“I can never rest at all
When the rain begins to fall”

The recognition of both the beauty of African heritage and the scars of slavery highlights the
hybrid nature of the speaker’s identity. They are not solely African or solely American but rather
a fusion of both, carrying within them the legacies of two distinct yet intertwined cultures

The concept of “double consciousness” in the poem “Heritage” refers to the experience of
having a dual identity or a sense of being divided between two cultures or societies. As he said
“ do l play a double part “

The religious duality is depicted through the conflict between the poet's pagan heritage,
characterized by vivid imagery of African deities, rituals, and ancestral connections, and the
transformative power of Christian beliefs. “Quaint, outlandish heathen gods “
He also says that “My conversion came high priced / I belong to Jesus Christ”
The poet grapples with the clash between these contrasting religious perspectives, seeking to
understand their place within this duality and reconcile the different aspects of their spiritual
identity.
The presence of numerous animals in the poem "Heritage" serves multiple purposes. Animals
often carry symbolic meanings and evoke various emotions and associations, which enrich the
thematic exploration of the poem. Animals can symbolize different qualities or concepts. For
example, lions often represent strength and majesty, while birds can symbolize freedom or
spirituality. In some African cultures, animals hold cultural significance and reflects the poet's
desire to honor and reconnect with their African cultural heritage as well as to add richness to
the poem's imagery.