By Katlyn Marotz, Senior Managing News Editor
After moving around the country throughout his teenage and young adult life, Langston Hughes began his notable start at his colorful and vivid writing career. He is most commonly known for being the poet of the people because of his depictions of African American culture and everyday life. He inspired others to be proud of their culture and helped shape racial pride.
After graduating from high school, he spent a year in Mexico followed by a year at Columbia University in New York. Hughes had many challenging jobs during this time including bus boy and assistant cook. After gaining notoriety in the creative community, Hughes graduated from Lincoln University and published several non fiction books.
He grew to be a social activist, novelist, columnist, and playwright in later years. He was one of the innovators of jazz poetry and one of the leaders of the Harlem Renaissance. Some of his famous pieces include “Mother to Son,” “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” and “Dreams.” Through all of his pieces, he highlights injustice, promotes equality, and celebrates African American culture and spirituality. And, he was heavily influenced by jazz music and displays the sounds and traditions of the blues.