A dream deferred refers to a goal or ambition that has been delayed or put on hold, either temporarily or indefinitely. The phrase comes from the Langston Hughes poem "Harlem," in which the speaker wonders what happens to a dream that is "deferred." The dream in the poem is not specified, but it is implied to be a dream of hope and possibility, a dream that gives the dreamer a sense of purpose and direction.
The idea of a dream deferred is a powerful one because it speaks to the human experience of disappointment and frustration. We all have dreams and aspirations, things we want to achieve or accomplish in our lives. When we are young, these dreams may seem limitless and within reach. But as we grow older and encounter the challenges and setbacks of life, we may find that our dreams are put on hold, or that they are difficult to realize.
The concept of a dream deferred is particularly relevant in times of adversity or hardship, when the obstacles to achieving our goals may seem insurmountable. For example, in the midst of a global pandemic, many people have had to put their dreams on hold as they focus on more immediate concerns such as health and financial stability. Similarly, in times of social or political unrest, individuals may find it difficult to pursue their dreams due to external factors beyond their control.
However, a dream deferred does not have to be a permanent state. While it may be frustrating or disheartening to have to put our dreams on hold, it is important to remember that it is possible to pick up where we left off and continue working towards our goals. In Hughes' poem, the speaker ultimately concludes that a dream deferred does not disappear, but rather "explodes." This suggests that even when our dreams are delayed, they remain a powerful force, waiting to be realized.
In conclusion, a dream deferred refers to a goal or ambition that has been delayed or put on hold. It is a common experience, particularly in times of hardship, but it is not a permanent state. While it may be difficult to have to put our dreams on hold, it is important to remember that it is possible to pick up where we left off and continue working towards our goals.