Langston Hughes was an incredible African American poet of the Harlem Renaissance, activist and writer. Born in February 1902 in Joplin, Missouri, his passion for poetry and creative writing has paved the way for many generations of African American writers. His works aimed to shed light on the everyday lives of African Americans, as well as their struggles for civil rights. He was deeply influenced by many people in his life, from poets to writers to prominent leaders of the time. In this article, we’ll explore who influenced Langston Hughes and how their efforts helped shape the literature we read today.
Hart Crane – Mentor & Influencer
Hart Crane was an American poet who mentored and encouraged Hughes to pursue poetry. Crane was an outspoken critic of racial discrimination and advocated for African American rights. He was so dedicated to this cause that he wrote several political poems about struggles for racial justice. Crane’s poetry was also influential on Hughes, who admired the way he managed to marry complex political ideas with traditional poetry. Later on in his career, Hughes’ own works featured many of the same political angles, often drawing on his own experiences with discrimination.
Ralph Ellison – Friend and Literary Hero
Hughes and Ralph Ellison, arguably the most iconic African American fiction writer of the time, were close friends and exchanged ideas which furthered their craft. Ellison had a huge influence on Hughes, challenging him to think differently and to craft stories that gave an authentic view of African American life and history. This inspired Hughes to move away from The Negro Theme, which essentially commodified African American life according to stereotypes. Instead, he incorporated folktales, blues, and even spirituals into his stories to paint an accurate picture of African American life.
W.E.B. Du Bois – Role Model and Writer
Hughes was greatly inspired by W.E.B. Du Bois’ work and efforts in the fight for civil rights. Du Bois was a civil rights leader and a co-founder of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and through his work, he advocated for African American rights and civil rights for all. He wrote extensively about racism and oppression, and his work inspired Hughes to become more politically engaged. In 1935, Du Bois joined the Communist party, and this helped Hughes shape his own ideas about communism and the power of the working class, which would come through in much of his writing.
Carl Van Vechten – Patron and Confidante
Carl Van Vechten was a white writer and photographer who became a close friend and patron of Langston Hughes. He was so moved by Hughes’ writing that he pushed him to continue writing and publishing his work. He set him up with various contacts in the publishing world and even funded his first book. Van Vechten was seen as a champion for African American artists, and his support for Hughes was invaluable. Without it, Hughes may not have been able to reach the success he achieved during his lifetime.
The Impacts Of Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes was deeply influenced by the people in his life, from other poets and writers, to civil rights leaders and patrons. Through their support and guidance, Hughes was able to create powerful, thought-provoking works that would go on to inspire generations of African Americans and other people of color. His works were a testament to the power of the written word, and the power of the African American struggle.
Langston Hughes & The Harlem Renaissance
The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural movement that had a profound impact on Langston Hughes, as well as many other African American writers of the time. This movement was a celebration of African American culture, and was a time of great growth in the African American writing community. During this time, Hughes found success and recognition with his works, and was able to use the platform to address issues of racism and oppression. The influence of the Harlem Renaissance can be seen through Hughes’ work, and it is clear that the positive energy of the movement had a major impact on the development of his writing.
Langston Hughes & The Rise Of Protest Poetry
Langston Hughes was arguably one of the founders of protest poetry, a genre of writing that utilizes imagery and metaphor to address political and social issues. Hughes was a master of this form of writing, and his works were able to capture the spirit of the civil rights movement and speak directly to the trials and tribulations of African Americans during this time. His words flew through the air like a bold, passionate proclamation of African American rights, and his writings have inspired countless writers and poets to take up the cause of protest poetry and make sure their voices are heard.
The Long-Lasting Effects Of Langston Hughes
Hughes’ influence can still be felt today, both in the works of modern African American writers and poets, and in the way his works have impacted the world. He was a voice for the voiceless, and a champion of civil rights and African American culture. His words continue to reverberate in the hearts and minds of many, and his works act as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by African Americans throughout history. Without the works of Langston Hughes, the landscape of African American literature and the civil rights movement would be very different.
