How does the poem's use of imagery develop the theme of the poem? Cite evidence from the text in your answer. SONNET
by James Weldon Johnson1893
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James Weldon Johnson (1871-1938) was an American writer and civil rights activist. Johnson served a vital role in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The following poem by Johnson is a sonnet, which consists of fourteen rhyming lines. As you read, take notes on how the speaker's uses imagery in the poem.
My heart be brave, and do not falter so,

Nor utter more that deep, despairing wail.

Thy way is very dark and drear I know,

But do not let thy strength and courage fail;

For certain as the raven-winged night

Is followed by the bright and blushing morn,

Thy coming morrow will be clear and bright;

’Tis darkest when the night is furthest worn.

Look up, and out, beyond, surrounding clouds,

And do not in thine own gross darkness grope,

Rise up, and casting off thy hind’ring shrouds,

Cling thou to this, and ever inspiring hope:

Tho’ thick the battle and tho’ fierce the fight,

There is a power making for the right.

Sonnet by James Weldon Johnson is in the public domain.

Notes
All Definitions Footnotes
1. Falter (verb) : to start to lose strength; to hesitate
2. Grope (verb) : to feel about blindly
3. something that covers or guards; burial cloth