Langston Hughes was well-known for his prolific output in literature and social activism. He was an American poet, novelist, playwright, and social activist who was a leading figure in Harlem renaissance during the 1920s. Born in 1902 in Missouri, Langston Hughes was one of the first African American writers to become widely known. His works celebrated the heritage and lives of Black Americans, and brought about an era of promising promise and empowerment for Black Americans through the written word.
Despite his success and widespread reputation, Langston Hughes had his share of struggles, just like any human being. Before he could pursue his writing career, he had to figure out how to make a living. He had to come up with ways to make money, just like everyone else. It is quite inspiring to learn that the great Langston Hughes started off with humble beginnings.
Langston Hughes first job was as a busboy in a Washington D.C. hotel. Working as a busboy was typically a consistent, daily job that meant good pay. Hughes worked there for a few weeks then moved on to rail jobs. He took a job with the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters – a famous Black labor union led by A. Philip Randolph After this, he moved to another job as a servant in a private home, where he worked as a cook and chauffeur. This allowed him to attend George Washington High School at the same time.
An important part of Langston’s early jobs was their role in helping to shape his worldview. Working as a busboy and chauffeur in private homes exposed Hughes to the way money, status and power were distributed among different racial classes in the US. His jobs also allowed him to observe a variety of different African American communities which contributed to his understanding of being an African American in different parts of the country. These early jobs made a huge impact on Hughes and influenced his writing.
In addition to working as a busboy, Hughes also worked as a poet, editor and playwright. He was one of the first African American writers to have national visibility. His works and stories dealt with prevalent social issues pertaining to racial injustice and discrimination and empowered Black Americans to take ownership of their stories and demand better rights and representation. Hughes used poetry as an important outlet to bring forth these struggles and observations to a larger audience. His writings were groundbreaking and pushed the boundaries of what was socially acceptable at the time.
During Langston Hughes’ career, he also worked as a columnist for African newspapers, and wrote plays and musicals. These works were very successful and helped to bring more attention to Black causes and issues. He wrote and participated in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960’s, and this period of his life is probably one of the most well-known. He was a major contributor to the development of the Black Arts Movement, which is still alive today.
Changing the Narrative
Hughes changed the narrative in the world of literature for Black Americans, showing that storytelling and prose could be used to transmit and document experiences and histories. His works, such as “The Weary Blues” addressed topics such as race, power, and a vision for a better future, which are still pertinent to this day. His use of lyricism, street characters, and humor, gave readers a voice that wasn’t heard before. He also dramatically changed how African-American literature was viewed by mainstream society – no longer could it be considered a subgenre. His works redefined what was and should be considered “mainstream” literature.
Impact
Langston Hughes’ work has had a lasting impact, and is still read, analyzed and taught in schools today. His works were praised by literary greats such as W.E.B Dubois, who referred to him as the “poet laureate of the Negro Race.” Hughes’ poetry has inspired many writers and artists, and his works are often referred to when discussing African American literature. He is an important figure in the history of American literature, and his works have had a lasting impact on the way Black experiences and stories are represented in art.
Final Years
In his remaining years, Hughes was a fixture in the literary world. He continued to be involved in important social movements and even went to Cuba and the Soviet Union, where he wrote about the people and the movements. In his final years, Hughes was awarded several honorary degrees, including one from Harvard University, and was frequently invited to speak and read his works. In 1967, he was awarded the Spingarn Medal, an honor given by the NAACP. Langston Hughes died in 1967, and has since become an iconic figure in American literature.
Legacy
Langston Hughes’ legacy continues to live on to this day. His works are taught in schools and universities, and his works are still read, enjoyed and studied. He changed the narrative of Black literature in America forever and inspired a generation of writers and activists to follow in his footsteps. His memory and impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Influence
Langston Hughes’ influence can still be seen in modern literature and art. His works have been adapted and reinterpreted by contemporary authors, filmmakers, and even musicians. His unique voice, style and perspectives are often referenced in modern works, showing his enduring influence and importance. He was at the forefront of the Harlem Renaissance and changed the way Black stories were being told, which can be seen in modern works.
Quote
The world owes a lot to the work of Langston Hughes and the influence he had on Black literature and culture. One of his most famous quotes is “Life is for the living. Death is for the dead. Let life be like music. And death a note unsaid.” This quote perfectly summarizes the legacy of Langston Hughes and his enduring impact – to live life to the fullest and make sure your voice is heard.
