Summary Of Langston Hughes By Arnold Rampersad

Throughout the essay, “The Origins of Poetry in Langston Hughes” the author, Arnold Rampersad, makes three very important points. As a whole, the essay addresses the evolution of Langston Hughes’ literary works and reveals why Hughes’ poetry changed the way it did. The most prominent point in the essay addresses Hughes’ personal connections with his works. Rampersad stresses the idea that Hughes drew his creativity from his unhappiness. Hughes himself claimed that he wrote best when he was at his worst. Hughes was very personal in his poetry; therefore, his personal anguish and opinions are reflected throughout his works. Hughes channeled his emotions into his works and used writing to vent his feelings. Sorrowful circumstances such as loss,
death, discrimination, segregation, and disappointment resulted in some of Hughes’ best works. Another point made in “The Origins of Poetry in Langston Hughes” addresses the ways Hughes’ writing techniques changed African American poetry. Hughes’ writing techniques essentially redefined African American poetry. Hughes’ poetry introduced blues and folk forms of writing which attracted African American readers. Hughes also used his poetry as a voice for African Americans living in Harlem. Hughes’ works gave direct insight to the struggles which African Americans endured. The third point made in “The Origins of Poetry in Langston Hughes” addresses Hughes’ love for the black masses living in Harlem. Not only did Hughes use his poetry as a voice for those living in Harlem, he also wrote to their understanding. Hughes wanted African Americans to be able to comprehend his works, so he wrote in their vernacular. Hughes’ devotion to lower class African Americans along with the cultural aspects of Harlem are evident in each of his works. Essentially, “The Origins of Poetry in Langston Hughes” summarizes how Hughes’ feelings, writing, and love for Harlem affected his poetry.