Major Figures:
* Langston Hughes: Perhaps the most famous Harlem Renaissance poet, known for his vivid portrayals of African American life, jazz influences, and social commentary.
* Claude McKay: A Jamaican-born poet known for his powerful imagery, themes of racial pride, and revolutionary spirit.
* Countee Cullen: A skilled poet who explored themes of race, identity, and the African American experience with elegance and sophistication.
* W.E.B. Du Bois: Though primarily known as a sociologist and activist, Du Bois also contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance with his poetry, which often explored the complexities of race and identity.
* Zora Neale Hurston: A novelist, folklorist, and anthropologist, Hurston also wrote impactful poetry that celebrated African American culture and folklore.
Other Important Poets:
* Alain Locke: A philosopher and critic, Locke's poetry reflected his intellectualism and engagement with the cultural movement.
* Georgia Douglas Johnson: A prolific poet known for her intimate and lyrical style, exploring themes of love, loss, and the African American experience.
* Sterling A. Brown: A poet and scholar known for his realistic and often rural depictions of African American life.
* Arna Bontemps: A novelist, poet, and librarian, Bontemps' work reflected his interest in African American history and folklore.
* James Weldon Johnson: A lawyer, diplomat, and composer, Johnson also wrote impactful poetry that celebrated African American culture and identity.
This is not an exhaustive list, and there were many other talented poets who contributed to the Harlem Renaissance. These poets helped to shape the cultural landscape of the 1920s and continue to be celebrated for their artistry and social commentary.