Langston Hughes' 'Salvation': A Young Boy's Struggle with Faith and Expectations

Title: Langston Hughes' 'Salvation': A Personal Struggle between Faith and Expectations

Introduction: In Langston Hughes' short story 'Salvation,' the author vividly describes his personal experience with a crisis of faith during a revival meeting in his childhood. Torn between the expectations of his family and the literal interpretation of religion, Hughes presents a thought-provoking narrative that delves into the complexities of religious belief and the pressure to conform. From the perspective of Westly, this article aims to explore the inner turmoil faced by Hughes and the societal implications of religious experiences.

The Expectations of Faith: As a young boy, Hughes finds himself caught in the expectations of his family and the religious community. With the preacher's impassioned sermons and the fervent cries of fellow congregants, he feels compelled to accept Jesus and be saved. However, the pressure to conform to the beliefs of others creates a conflict within him, as he questions the authenticity of his experience.

The Crisis of Identity: Hughes confronts a crisis of identity as he grapples with the idea of salvation. Westly can't help but empathize with the young Hughes, as he struggles to reconcile his own beliefs with those of his family and community. This internal struggle highlights the universal human desire for acceptance, while also emphasizing the importance of individual autonomy in matters of faith.

Social and Cultural Influences: Through his narrative, Hughes sheds light on the influence of social and cultural factors on religious experiences. Westly recognizes the immense pressure placed on Hughes to conform to societal expectations, particularly within the African American community. The revival meeting serves as a microcosm of the broader societal pressures faced by marginalized individuals, who are often forced to suppress their doubts and conform to established norms.

The Loss of Innocence: Hughes' story ultimately explores the loss of innocence that accompanies the clash between faith and societal expectations. Westly notes that the young boy's disillusionment with religion is not due to a lack of faith but rather a consequence of the conflicting beliefs and external pressures imposed upon him. This loss of innocence is a poignant reminder of the compromises individuals may need to make in order to fit into societal molds.

Conclusion: Langston Hughes' 'Salvation' is a compelling account of a young boy's struggle with faith and societal expectations. From Westly's perspective, the story highlights the internal conflict faced by Hughes as he grapples with the pressures of conformity, the desire for acceptance, and the loss of innocence. By delving into these themes, Hughes prompts readers to reflect on the complexities of religious experiences and the impact of societal influences on individual beliefs. Ultimately, 'Salvation' serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of personal introspection and the need to navigate faith on one's own terms.