Wealth by Langston Hughes

From Christ to Ghandi Appears this truth- St. Francis of Assisi Proves it, too: Goodness becomes grandeur Surpassing might of kings. Halos of kindness Brighter shine Than crowns of gold, And brighter Than rich diamonds Sparkles The simple dew Of love. In this poem, Langston Hughes explains that love and kindness are greater than any material wealth possessed by any person.  Hughes reveals this through his faith and inspirational people present in his life.  Hughes compares "goodness," "kindness," and "love" to different material riches through metaphor to express the idea that having these qualities is much more valuable than have money or power.

To the River by Edgar Allan Poe

Fair river! in thy bright, clear flow
    Of crystal, wandering water,
Thou art an emblem of the glow
       Of beauty -- the unhidden heart --
       The playful maziness of art
In old Alberto's daughter;

But when within thy wave she looks --
       Which glistens then, and trembles --
Why, then, the prettiest of brooks
       Her worshipper resembles;
For in my heart, as in thy stream,
    Her image deeply lies --
The heart which trembles at the beam
    Of her soul-searching eyes.


In this poem, I think Poe is showing his love for a woman.  He speaks of "Alberto's daughter and compares her to a river.  The river is the "emblem of the glow of beauty" and "her image deeply lies" in his heart.  This poem by Edgar Allan Poe is not as dark and gloomy as some of his others.