Salvation
In most people's lives, there comes a point in time where their perception changes abruptly; a single moment in their life when they come to a sudden realization. In Langston Hughes' "Salvation", contrary to all expectations, a young Hughes is not saved by Jesus, but is saved from his own innocence. "Salvation" is the story of a young boy who has an experience of revelation. While attending a church revival, he comes to the sudden realization that Jesus will not physically come save him. The main reason for the boy's innocence in the essay is his Auntie Reed. She goes on talking for days about the big revival. Just like any other kid would, Hughes listens and believes what his aunt tells
Through "Salvation", Langston Hughes offers his thoughts on how young individuals' minds can be manipulated by religious authorities. him, "She said you could see and hear and feel Jesus in your soul. Some might feel as though the reason for not being saved was because it was not their time to see Jesus, but with Hughes, the experience caused him to believe from that point on in his life that there really was not Jesus after all, and all the people, stories and celebrations were as though a big joke meant for ignorant fools. His perception changed because he went from being from which he gained truth and awareness. However, he stresses that it is important to keep a strong mind to be able to make wise decisions. Hughes is certain something is bound to happen. All the stories and preaching he once viewed so true and mighty, now all seemed like foolish lies and fables. The reader can see this in the first two paragraphs especially, where Hughes uses satire to describe the people and their reactions at the church. Seeing his friend Westley give up so carelessly, triggers an awkward feeling inside of Hughes. With the word of mouth, celebration and greatness of this upcoming big step in his life, it builds up in the young child's mind hype and anticipation. The thought that Jesus is not going to show up after has now implanted doubt in his once convinced mind. Eventually this doubt grows into disappointment and embarrassment from being the last one left standing, so he gives up and joins Westley in lying. It is only at night that he comes to the realization that he was fooled. His disappointment is portrayed when he does not literally see Jesus.
Common topics in this essay:
Auntie Reed,
Hughes' Salvation,
Jesus Hughes,
Hughes Jesus,
Langston Hughes,
,
Jesus Jesus,
saved jesus,
sudden realization,
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Acceptance Essays
