Langston Hughes’s work often portrays the harsh realities faced by impoverished and marginalized youth, particularly Black children during the early to mid-20th century. His poems and stories frequently depict the premature deaths of these young people, often due to societal neglect, violence, and lack of opportunity. For example, his poem “A Ballad of Landlord” illustrates the fatal consequences of substandard housing and economic hardship.
Highlighting the tragic fates of children serves a crucial function in Hughes’s writing. It exposes the systemic inequalities that contributed to their suffering and serves as a powerful indictment of social injustice. By giving voice to these voiceless victims, Hughes compels readers to confront the devastating consequences of racism and poverty. His work contributes to a broader understanding of the African American experience during this era and continues to resonate with contemporary audiences grappling with similar issues. His powerful imagery and stark language personalize these tragedies, making them impossible to ignore.
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