Analysis Of Mother To Son Poem

The poem “Mother to Son” addresses the theme of overcoming racial discrimination. The speaker of the poem is a mother lecturing her son. By referring to her life as not being a “crystal staircase” would suggest a lifestyle that is simple, beautiful, and luxurious (). The life she speaks of is only for people with privilege, specifically white people. The speaker reflects on her life, stating how it has never been easy for her. The description of her life evokes sympathy. The speaker describes her life to have been filled with “tacks” and “splinters” (). The words indicate how harsh her life has been as well as her social standing. The destruction of the stairs also suggests that someone has pulled apart the stairs to make it difficult for her to climb. The “carpet” is a luxury that would be suitable her needs (). It would have protected her from the struggles of life, but she was not guaranteed it because of her race.
The speaker addresses to her son how she has been able to manage and overcome the discrimination she’s faced in her life. To start, she explains to her son that she had to face her struggles with determination. She describes that the outcome of her mindset has allowed her the ability to start “Reachin landin’s” that she never thought she’d get to before (). As a result of how she is rewarded for her progress, she continues to defy social conventions. She also explains that facing life’s setbacks also takes courage. The speaker tells her son that now and then she’s had to face “goin in the dark” alone (). The statement can provoke fear. Her ability to continuously overcoming the obstacles that society has placed in her life shows the bravery she has gained. Her achievements also represent progress is being made for her