A Black Man Talks of Reaping

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of racism.

The Black man speaks about his “reaping” due to prejudice; thus, racism is a central theme. White men, too, have faced exploitation, but not for the same reasons as Black people, and the Black man represents the general Black community. Throughout history, Black people have carefully “scattered seed” (Line 5) to better their lives and the lives of their families. Often, Black people don’t get the rewards of their labors, and they’re left with only a scarcity of resources that compel them to live day-to-day. As the speaker puts it, “But for my reaping only what the hand / Can hold at once is all that I can show” (Lines 7-8). The cycle doesn’t end with the speaker. The racism continues with his “children” (Line 11) who “feed on bitter fruit” (Line 12). What the speaker passes on isn’t wealth but cross discontent. The “bitter fruit” imagery suggests that injustice is not only endured but also inherited, reinforcing the idea that racism does not end with one generation but continues to shape future ones.

Bontemps links racism to exploitation. Due to the man’s race, America exploits him to a greater degree.