Langston Hughes is widely considered one of the most influential African American poets and writers of the 20th century. Throughout his life, he faced many struggles and challenges that shaped his work and contributed to his unique voice in American literature. This essay will explore the struggles of Langston Hughes, from his early years to his rise as a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance. Say no to plagiarism. Get a custom essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essay Born in Joplin, Missouri in 1902, Hughes faced racism and discrimination from a young age. Growing up in a segregated society, he was acutely aware of the challenges African Americans faced in a country that denied them basic rights and opportunities. Despite these obstacles, Hughes found solace in writing, using poetry and prose to express his thoughts and feelings about the world around him. One of the main difficulties Hughes faced throughout his career was the tension between his desire to be a successful writer and his commitment. to social justice. As a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, Hughes was meant to represent the African American experience in a positive light, but he also wanted to address the harsh realities of racism and oppression. This tension is evident in much of his work, which often explores themes of identity, inequality and resistance. In addition to his artistic struggles, Hughes also faced personal challenges, including financial difficulties and health problems. Despite these obstacles, he continued to write prolifically, producing poems, essays, and plays that resonated with readers around the world. His commitment to social justice and his belief in the power of art to bring about change have inspired generations of writers and activists. One example of a struggle Hughes faced was the pressure to conform to societal expectations for African American writers. During the Harlem Renaissance, African American artists were pushed to produce work depicting their community in a positive light, often glossing over the harsh realities of racism and discrimination. Hughes, however, refused to shy away from addressing these issues in his writings. In his poem “Me Too,” Hughes boldly proclaims, “I am the darker brother / They send me to eat in the kitchen / When company comes,” emphasizing the segregation and marginalization experienced by African Americans in the UNITED STATES. This willingness to confront uncomfortable truths distinguished Hughes from his contemporaries and solidified his reputation as a fearless and authentic voice in American literature. Additionally, Hughes struggled with the expectations of his family and community. Coming from a family with middle-class aspirations, Hughes often felt compelled to pursue a more traditional career. However, his passion for writing and his desire to shed light on the experiences of African Americans led him to follow his own path, despite the disapproval of those around him. In his autobiography “The Big Sea,” Hughes recounts the internal conflict he faced between achieving his own dreams and meeting the expectations of others. This struggle for autonomy and self-expression is a recurring theme in Hughes's work, as he continually grapples with the tension between individuality and social responsibility. Additionally, Hughes was criticized by both white and black audiences for his outspoken views on.