Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes was the poet laureate of the Harlem Renaissance, but he also wrote significant prose fiction including his Jesse B. Semple columns and the novel Not Without Laughter. His work brought jazz rhythms and vernacular speech into American literature.
Works
- Not Without LaughterNovel of Black family's struggles and resilience during economic hardship and racism
- The Ways of White FolksCollection of stories exploring race relations and African American experiences
- Simple Speaks His MindCollection of sketches featuring comic character Simple commenting on American race relations
- Laughing to Keep from CryingCollection of stories depicting African American life, humor, and social commentary
- Simple Takes a WifeCollection of Simple sketches with working-class protagonist addressing social issues
- The Weary BluesPoetry collection exploring African American experience, jazz rhythms, and urban life
- Montage of a Dream DeferredPoetry collection depicting Harlem life through fragmented impressions and voices
- Fine Clothes to the JewPoetry collection addressing African American working-class life with jazz influences
- Ask Your MamaPoetry collection exploring race, identity, and social commentary through verse
- Collected PoemsComprehensive collection of poet's career spanning lyrics, protest, and folk traditions