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Langston Hughes, an African American writer who lived and wrote during the first half of the 20th century, remains one of the most celebrated writers in American history. He was a social activist, novelist, playwright, columnist and leader of the Harlem Renaissance. In this story, a woman is pleasantly surprised to find one of his poems among her granddaughter’s school papers. She shares with her granddaughter the many things she admired about Hughes, and the many reasons he was such an influential poet and person during his time. She speaks about Hughes’s early life, his travels, and his lyrical poetry. Listen to learn more about this famous poet, who continues to inspire younger generations today.
Story Length: 4:28
© 2002 National Public Radio, Inc. Used with the permission of NPR. All rights reserved.
02/01/2002
https://app.listenwise.com/students/lessons/309-the-life-of-langston-hughes
How did Vertamae Grosvenor react when she found out her granddaughter had learned a Langston Hughes poem in school?
According to Langston Hughes, why might he have been elected as class poet?
How was Langston Hughes introduced to different kinds of poetry?
In what ways was Langston Hughes “a worldly man”?
What are three other new things you learned about Langston Hughes?