Mother to Son

Mother to Son, written by the renowned poet Langston Hughes in 1922, is a beloved poem that speaks of hope and resilience. This short yet powerful piece has been studied for decades as an important work of literature due to its symbolism and themes. It serves as a reminder that life may be difficult at times, but it can also be rewarding if one perseveres through their struggles.


The poem follows the story of a mother advising her son on how he should live his life; she encourages him not to give up despite all the obstacles they both have faced. The message conveyed is one of perseverance and determination, which makes it particularly relevant today when many are facing challenging circumstances due to pandemics or economic downturns.


One particular aspect that stands out in this piece is its use of figurative language such as metaphor and simile. Through these literary devices, Hughes emphasizes certain points for them to become more impactful than if they were simply stated plainly. For example, when discussing how hard life can be at times, the mother states, "Life for me ain't been no crystal staircase" (Hughes 2). By using such vivid imagery, readers can visualize what she means, even though her exact words are straightforward. There will always be bumps along our journey, but we must keep going regardless because there could be some great rewards waiting ahead down those stairs.


Overall, Mother to Son provides readers with an inspiring tale about never giving up on one's dreams despite the difficulties faced. Although it was written nearly 100 years ago, this lesson remains true today, making it a timeless classic.