Skip to content

I will not take 'but' for an answer. Negroes have been…

“I will not take 'but' for an answer. Negroes have been looking at democracy's 'but' too long.” quote by Langston Hughes
Download Open image
“I will not take 'but' for an answer. Negroes have been looking at democracy's 'but' too long.”

Langston Hughes

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Refuses to accept half‑measures in democracy; calls out persistent obstacles.

In simple terms: Reject partial solutions in democracy.

Key Takeaway

Demand full equality and justice.

Themes

justice civil rights determination

Mood

determined defiant

Type

political motivational

When to use this quote

  • voting rights activism
  • policy advocacy
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

systemic oppression political rhetoric

Questions to Reflect On

  • What “but” still blocks true democracy?
  • How can you confront it?
A Different Perspective

May overlook progress already made.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Langston Hughes

Explore all 230 Langston Hughes quotes

More Answers quotes

Browse all 7,843 Answers quotes