"Theme for English B," written by Langston Hughes, stresses our similarities as humans and proposes equalities against a backdrop of differences and discrimination. Strong support is available with careful analysis of visually descriptive pieces of the poem and we can further pursue ideas with consideration for historical context. Placing "Theme for English B" within the timeframe that it was written provides an abundance of insight as to what Hughes intended to teach us with his writing. "Theme for English B," is provided great significance by the year of 1959. How can we relate the poem to the year 1959?
             America mid-century bore an idea of segregation and low tolerance for blacks by the white community (source 1). Hughes saw the problems associated with the separation for both whites and blacks and strove to educate people with his writing. In a year when blacks were being demoralized and struggled to find pride, Hughes took it upon himself to aid in restoring pride in the African-American culture (source 3). Not only did Hughes work to do this, he also hoped to provide intelligence to the whites in America by educating them in the black culture and human commonalities. Hughes life growing up to this point also helped to fuel "Theme for English B" as will be discussed.
             Hughes grew up throughout a variety of locations. Born in Joplin, Missouri, and then moving around to Kansas, Illinois, Ohio, and Mexico throughout his early adulthood exposed Hughes to many people (source 2). Learning the ways of America provided a harsh depiction of how blacks were truthfully treated in the states. This picture just continued to be presented with his year at Columbia. The situation that Hughes became accustomed to fueled his passion for educating America. For him it was not only a fight to change the ideals of whites but to instill pride in blacks towards their culture. Moving to Harlem la...