Langston Hughes is widely regarded as one of the greatest poets of the 20th century and an icon of the Harlem Renaissance, but what are the forgotten roots that laid the foundation for his work?
Born on February 1, 1902, in Joplin, Missouri, Hughes grew up in an era of widespread racism and segregation. He was deeply influenced by his grandmother, Mary Patterson Langston, who instilled in him a love of literature and a sense of pride in his African-American heritage.
Hughes’ early life was marked by hardship and loss. His parents divorced when he was a young child, and his father moved to Mexico to escape racism in America. His mother, who struggled with mental health issues, left him with his grandmother and moved frequently before settling in Illinois, where she died when Hughes was just 13.
Despite these challenges, Hughes found solace in literature and began writing poetry in high school. He attended Columbia University briefly but left after a year, disillusioned by the racism he faced and eager to pursue his writing career in Harlem.
It was in Harlem that Hughes found his voice as a poet and became a central figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that celebrated African-American art, literature, and music. He wrote about everyday life in the black community, from the joys of dancing to the pain of segregation and racism.
Hughes’ work was groundbreaking in its honesty and authenticity, and it resonated with readers of all backgrounds. He published numerous collections of poetry, as well as plays, novels, and essays. His most famous poem, “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” was written when Hughes was just 17 and has been called a “landmark in African-American history.”
Despite his success, Hughes never forgot his roots. He remained proud of his African-American heritage and used his platform to speak out against racism and injustice. He also drew inspiration from the blues and other forms of black music, which he believed captured the essence of the African-American experience.
Today, Hughes’ legacy lives on through his words, which continue to inspire and resonate with readers around the world. His work reminds us of the rich and complex history of African-Americans in America and the power of literature to capture our collective experience.
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