This analytical writing lesson uses Langston Hughes's short poem "Dreams" to develop students' understanding of literary analysis in a short period of time. As the language of poetry is filled with figurative language, one poem can provide multiple opportunities for students to practice important skills. As this two-stanza poem centers around a pair of metaphors, it does not take long to read and discuss. Therefore, the entire lesson can be completed in 1-2 class periods. To facilitate discuss