Langston Hughes
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The early 20th century Harlem Renaissance was an inspirational era for
African Americans. An unprecedented explosion of art characterized the
time -- jazz was king and African-inspired literature informed much of
the Modernist movement. The artists and writers at the center of this
cultural revolution believed that art could help close the
great rift that existed between white and black Americans. One of the
greatest and most idealistic luminaries of the time was
celebrated poet, author, and playwright James
Mercer Langston Hughes.
Hughes emerged as the most influential, talented, and
versatile African American writer of the century. He found his calling
early in childhood -- inspired by the writings of such poets as Carl
Sandburg and Paul Dunbar, he began on a journey of self-discovery
through creative writing and never looked back. Most of Hughes' poetry,
like The Weary Blues, dealt with themes common to jazz and
performance. Other works gave a voice to more overtly political ideas;
Montage of a Dream Deferred brilliantly chronicled the lives,
loves, hopes, and dreams of the Harlem community with a perspective that
was both personal and universal.
Life, of course, had many obstacles in store for him. His parents split
at an early age, and much of his childhood was spent in the care of his
grandmother. His mother moved frequently, and his relationship with his
father was tumultuous. Nevertheless, he graduated from high school in
Cleveland.
After a year at Columbia University, Hughes grew
disenchanted with formal education and spent several years traveling the
world, from the coasts of Africa to the great metropoles of Europe.
Hughes' sexuality may have also influenced his perspective on racial and
classist tension, but his orientation has never been conclusively
confirmed. His contemporaries were alternately convinced that he was
heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, and asexual. Unfortunately, his
autobiography
does little to shed light on the issue.
Hughes' impressive body of work -- more than 40 books -- has left an
indelible mark on American art, politics, and society. His vision of
racial equality and diversity continues to be shared by many today, and
his legacy will not soon be forgotten.
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