"An Inspiring Poet"

The are many Inspiring Poets in the world whose work influences upcoming poets today. One of my favorite poets is the famous Langston Hughes. His family history was not the best but his work is very influential .  James Langston Hughes was born in Joplin Missouri on February 1, 1902. At a very young age this parents got divorced and Hughes went to live with his grand parents. His great great grandfather was the brother of the first black American to be elected in Public office John Mercer Langston. He lived with them until the age of thirteen. He reunited with his mother and then moved to Cleveland. He attended Central High School there . He  wrote poems in the eight grade and was selected class poet. His passion for Poetry was strong but his father believed that he should take up another career path. Hughes decided to continue to follow his dream. His first poem that was published was the "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" in the Brownie Book. His poems later turned into plays. "The Weary Blues" published by Alfred Knopf  was his first book of poetry. He continues to write and his books and plays became popular and he was very successful. He was inspired by the black Americans in society, the hardship and struggles they faced between the twenties and the sixties. He contributed greatly to what we know as the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920's. In May 22,1967, Hughes died of complications with prostate cancer. His works still live on today and he still inspires a lot of poets. They renamed east 127 street in Harlem "Langston Hughes Place". He is gone but definitely not forgotten.


1) Was the separation of his parents a part of his passion for writing, when he was bored or felt alone was then when he started writing?

2) If he got to live to this age what would his work reflect and what would it be on since times have changed so drastically?

3) what would his words of encouragement be to upcoming poets?