“Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

“Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes was first published in 1958 in the collection “The Selected Short Stories of Langston Hughes“. This story showcases the qualities of responsibility, morality, and kindness in the context of a young boy’s encounter with a strong and compassionate woman, Mrs. Jones. The story explores themes of crime, guilt, and redemption, set against the backdrop of a urban African American community. Through the protagonist’s journey, Hughes highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and the transformative power of kindness and forgiveness.

Main Events in “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

1. Encounter with Mrs. Jones: Roger, a young boy, attempts to snatch Mrs. Jones’s purse but fails. She catches him and drags him home.
2. Acts of Kindness: Rather than turning him over to the police, Mrs. Jones takes Roger to her home, providing him food and cleanliness.
3. Revelations about Roger: Mrs. Jones learns about Roger’s troubled home life and lack of guidance.
4. Mrs. Jones’s Moral Guidance: She shares her own experiences and imparts wisdom to Roger about making better choices in life.
5. Roger’s Guilt and Remorse: Roger starts to feel guilty for his actions and becomes remorseful for trying to steal from Mrs. Jones.
6. Transformation through Responsibility: Mrs. Jones gives Roger the opportunity to wash his face and teaches him the importance of personal responsibility.
7. Redemption through Kindness: Despite Roger’s attempted theft, Mrs. Jones treats him with kindness, showing him that he is worthy of respect and care.
8. Impact of Forgiveness: Roger experiences the transformative power of forgiveness as Mrs. Jones chooses to trust him and gives him the money he wanted for his blue suede shoes.
9. Character Growth: Roger learns valuable lessons about accountability, empathy, and the importance of second chances.
10. Symbolism of the Blue Suede Shoes: The story ends with Roger’s decision not to buy the blue suede shoes he desired, symbolizing his newfound understanding of the value of hard work and earned rewards over easy gains through theft.

Literary Devices in “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

Literary Device	Example and Detail
1. Alliteration	“She caught him by the blue suede of his pants” – The repetition of the “s” sound in “suede” and “pants” creates a sense of urgency in the scene.
2. Allusion	Mrs. Jones’s name itself could be an allusion to the biblical character of “Mother Jones,” suggesting her nurturing and guiding role in Roger’s life.
3. Characterization	Mrs. Jones is characterized as strong and compassionate through her actions, such as dragging Roger home and offering him food and cleanliness instead of turning him over to the police.
4. Conflict	The story presents both external conflict (Roger’s attempted theft) and internal conflict (Roger’s guilt and Mrs. Jones’s decision on how to handle the situation).
5. Dialogue	The dialogue between Mrs. Jones and Roger reveals their personalities, motivations, and the evolving dynamics between them.
6. Flashback	Mrs. Jones’s brief mention of her own experiences in the past provides a flashback that adds depth to her character and context to her actions.
7. Foreshadowing	Roger’s desire for the blue suede shoes foreshadows his eventual decision not to buy them, indicating his growth and change by the end of the story.
8. Imagery	“He did not want to be mistrusted now.” – The image of Roger not wanting to be mistrusted creates a vivid picture of his internal struggle and desire for redemption.
9. Irony	The irony lies in Roger attempting to steal from Mrs. Jones, who ultimately teaches him valuable lessons about responsibility and kindness instead of punishing him.
10. Metaphor	“Her voice had a tough love sound” – Mrs. Jones’s voice is compared to “tough love,” implying that she cares for Roger but is also firm in her guidance and discipline.
11. Motif	The motif of redemption is prevalent throughout the story, as Roger seeks forgiveness and Mrs. Jones offers him a chance to make amends and change his ways.
12. Onomatopoeia	“The large woman simply turned around and kicked him right square in his blue-jeaned sitter” – The word “kicked” mimics the sound of the action, adding emphasis to the scene.
13. Personification	“The boy’s face was dirty” – Giving human attributes to the boy’s face enhances the imagery and creates a stronger visual impression.
14. Repetition	The repetition of “Thank you, ma’am” by Roger emphasizes his gratitude and respect towards Mrs. Jones, underscoring the theme of kindness and forgiveness.
15. Setting	The urban African American community setting provides a backdrop for the story’s themes of crime, poverty, and the importance of compassion and understanding.
16. Simile	“She was a large woman with a large purse that had everything in it but hammer and nails” – Mrs. Jones is compared to her purse, highlighting her preparedness and resourcefulness.
17. Symbolism	The blue suede shoes symbolize Roger’s desire for material possessions and his eventual decision to prioritize honesty and hard work over theft.
18. Theme	Themes of responsibility, morality, kindness, and redemption are explored through the interactions between Mrs. Jones and Roger and their impact on each other’s lives.
19. Tone	The tone of the story shifts from tension and conflict at the beginning to warmth and understanding as Mrs. Jones and Roger connect and learn from each other.
20. Understatement	Mrs. Jones’s reaction to Roger’s attempted theft is understated, as she simply takes him home rather than overreacting or involving the authorities, adding to her complexity as a character.

Characterization in “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

Major Characters:

1. Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones: Mrs. Jones is a strong, no-nonsense woman who displays both toughness and kindness. She is portrayed as a maternal figure who takes responsibility for Roger’s actions and offers him guidance and compassion instead of punishment. Mrs. Jones is resourceful, as seen when she drags Roger home and provides for his immediate needs, showcasing her practicality and empathy. She shares her own experiences with Roger, imparting valuable life lessons about responsibility and making better choices. Through her actions and words, Mrs. Jones becomes a catalyst for Roger’s transformation, demonstrating the power of forgiveness and second chances.
2. Roger: Roger is a young boy characterized by his desperation and lack of guidance. Initially, he attempts to steal Mrs. Jones’s purse out of a desire for material possessions. However, as the story progresses, Roger’s character undergoes significant development. Through his interaction with Mrs. Jones, he begins to feel guilt and remorse for his actions. Roger learns valuable lessons about accountability, empathy, and the importance of personal responsibility. By the end of the story, he experiences a transformation, choosing to forgo his desire for the blue suede shoes and instead embracing the principles of honesty and hard work.

Minor Characters:

1. None specifically named: Other characters in the story, such as the people on the street who witness Mrs. Jones’s encounter with Roger, serve to highlight the community context and the impact of Mrs. Jones’s actions. Their reactions, though brief, contribute to the overall atmosphere and themes of the story.

Major Themes in “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

• Compassion and Forgiveness: Even though Roger attempted to steal from Mrs. Jones, she chooses not to punish him harshly. Instead, she takes him home, feeds him, and even offers him money for the shoes he desired. This is evident in the passage: ““Then we’ll eat,” said the woman, “I believe you’re hungry—or been hungry—to try to snatch my pockekbook.” Here, Mrs. Jones recognizes Roger’s need and prioritizes his well-being over her anger.
• Understanding and Empathy: Mrs. Jones seems to understand the root of Roger’s actions. She shares her own past struggles, acknowledging, ““I were young once and I wanted things I could not get.” This moment suggests she sees Roger’s desperation and connects with him on a deeper level.
• Importance of Dignity and Respect: Despite Roger’s mistake, Mrs. Jones treats him with respect. She doesn’t belittle him and even offers guidance: ““Um-hum! You thought I was going to say but, didn’t you? You thought I was going to say, but I didn’t snatch people’s pocketbooks. Well, I wasn’t going to say that.” Here, she avoids shaming him and instead offers him a chance to learn and grow.
• Hope and Second Chances: The story emphasizes the power of offering someone a second chance. Mrs. Jones’ act of kindness gives Roger a chance to make better choices. This is shown in the ending: ““Now, here, take this ten dollars and buy yourself some blue suede shoes. And next time, do not make the mistake of latching onto my pocketbook nor nobody else’s—because shoes come by devilish like that will burn your feet.” Here, she empowers Roger to improve his life and avoid future mistakes.

Writing Style in “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

1. Simple and direct language: Hughes uses straightforward and uncomplicated language, which suits the narrative’s tone and themes.
2. Conversational tone: The story is told in a conversational style, which creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy.
3. Dialogue-driven narrative: The story is largely driven by dialogue, which reveals character traits, relationships, and themes.
4. Use of dialect: Hughes employs African American Vernacular English (AAVE) to create an authentic and immersive experience.
5. Symbolism: The story features symbolic elements like the purse, blue suede shoes, and food, which carry meaning beyond their literal interpretation.
6. Realistic portrayal: Hughes presents a realistic depiction of urban African American life, exploring themes like poverty, desperation, and redemption.
7. Emphasis on character development: The story focuses on the transformation of Roger and the kindness of Mrs. Jones, highlighting their emotional journeys.
8. Use of humor: Hughes incorporates subtle humor, often through Mrs. Jones’ witty remarks, to balance the narrative’s tone.
9. Themes and moral lessons: The story explores themes like responsibility, morality, and kindness, conveying moral lessons through the characters’ experiences.
10. Economic use of language: Hughes uses language efficiently, conveying much meaning and emotion through simple, well-chosen words and phrases.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

Literary Theory	Interpretation	Example from the Story
Feminist Theory	Mrs. Jones represents a strong, independent, and nurturing female figure who challenges traditional gender roles.	“She was a large woman with a large purse that had everything in it but hammer and nails.”
Marxist Theory	The story highlights class struggle and economic inequality, as Roger’s desire for blue suede shoes symbolizes the allure of consumerism and material wealth.	“I wanted a pair of blue suede shoes… I wanted them more than anything I ever wanted anything.”
Psychoanalytic Theory	Roger’s attempt to steal Mrs. Jones’ purse can be seen as a symbolic attempt to gain control and power, revealing his feelings of inadequacy and desire for validation.	“He looked as if he were fourteen or fifteen, frail and willow-wild, in tennis shoes and blue jeans.”
Symbolism	The purse represents security, stability, and maternal care, while the blue suede shoes symbolize desire, materialism, and the American Dream.	“She had a long strap… and she carried it slung across her shoulder.”
Realism	The story presents a realistic portrayal of urban African American life, exploring themes of poverty, desperation, and redemption.	“There was nobody home at my house… I was hungry.”
Existentialism	Mrs. Jones’ actions and words emphasize personal responsibility and the importance of making choices, illustrating the existentialist idea that individuals create their own meaning.	“You could’ve asked me… You didn’t have to snatch my pocketbook.”
Cultural Criticism	The story highlights the cultural significance of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.	“What’s your name, boy?… ‘Roger,’ answered the boy.”

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

Topic	Questions	Thesis Statements
1. Theme of Redemption	– How does Roger experience redemption throughout the story?	In “Thank You, M’am,” Langston Hughes illustrates the theme of redemption through Roger’s transformative journey, highlighting the power of forgiveness and second chances.
	– What role does Mrs. Jones play in Roger’s redemption?	Mrs. Jones serves as a catalyst for Roger’s redemption in “Thank You, M’am,” guiding him towards accountability and empathy, ultimately leading to his moral growth.
2. Portrayal of Urban African American Community	– How does the setting influence the characters and events in the story?	Langston Hughes uses the urban African American community setting in “Thank You, M’am” to underscore themes of poverty, compassion, and the importance of community support.
	– How do societal factors impact the characters’ actions and interactions?	Through the portrayal of societal pressures and challenges, “Thank You, M’am” highlights the resilience and humanity of individuals within the urban African American community.
3. The Power of Kindness and Forgiveness	– How does Mrs. Jones’s kindness affect Roger’s behavior and mindset?	“Thank You, M’am” emphasizes the transformative power of kindness and forgiveness as Mrs. Jones’s compassionate actions lead to Roger’s moral growth and redemption.
	– What broader message does the story convey about the importance of forgiveness?	Langston Hughes explores the profound impact of forgiveness on personal growth and redemption in “Thank You, M’am,” illustrating its significance in fostering empathy and understanding.
4. Symbolism of the Blue Suede Shoes	– What do the blue suede shoes symbolize in the story?	The symbolism of the blue suede shoes in “Thank You, M’am” represents Roger’s material desires and his eventual realization of the value of honesty and hard work.
	– How does Roger’s decision regarding the shoes reflect his character development?	Through Roger’s decision not to pursue the blue suede shoes, Langston Hughes highlights his growth and prioritization of integrity over material possessions in “Thank You, M’am.”

Short Questions/Answers about/on “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

• What does Roger want that leads him to confront Mrs. Jones?
• Roger desperately desires a pair of blue suede shoes. The story subtly reveals this through his confession after Mrs. Jones confronts him. While explaining his actions, the text mentions, “There’s nobody home at my house,” and then quickly follows with, “Then we’ll eat,” said the woman, “I believe you’re hungry—or been hungry—to try to snatch my pocketbook” (pg 3). This suggests his hunger might be a symptom of a larger issue, hinting at a lack of basic necessities like food and nice clothes, which fuels his desire for the shoes.
• How does Mrs. Jones initially react to Roger’s attempt to steal?
• While surprised, Mrs. Jones’ initial reaction is a surprising display of strength. The text describes her immediate action: “The large woman simply turned around and kicked him right square in his blue-jeaned sitter” (pg 1). This swift response demonstrates her ability to defend herself and likely discourages Roger from further attempts.
• What does Mrs. Jones offer Roger besides money?
• Mrs. Jones offers Roger not just money, but a glimpse of stability, kindness, and a chance to be seen. She takes him home to a safe space, provides him with a hot meal and even cocoa, a treat typically associated with comfort and home. The story highlights this by saying, “She heated some lima beans and ham she had in the icebox, made the cocoa, and set the table. The woman did not ask the boy anything about where he lived… Instead, as they ate, she told him about her job” (pg 3). This act of sharing a meal and conversation suggests a desire to connect with Roger on a human level.
• What is the significance of the title “Thank You, M’am”?
• “Thank You, M’am” goes beyond a polite expression. It signifies a shift in Roger’s perspective. Throughout the story, he is unnamed, highlighting his anonymity and potential lack of a positive role model. The act of thanking Mrs. Jones, with the respectful term “m’am,” suggests a newfound respect for her and possibly a recognition of her kindness. The ending emphasizes this with, “He barely managed to say ‘Thank you’ before she shut the door. And he never saw her again” (pg 3). The brevity of his thanks underscores the weight of his gratitude and the impact Mrs. Jones has on him.

Literary Works Similar to “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

1. “The Lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara: This short story follows a group of underprivileged children who receive a life lesson from a woman named Miss Moore during a trip to a toy store in New York City. Like “Thank You, M’am,” it explores themes of socioeconomic inequality, morality, and the transformative power of education and exposure to new experiences.
2. “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker: In this short story, a mother and her two daughters, Dee and Maggie, clash over the ownership and meaning of cultural artifacts. Similar to “Thank You, M’am,” it delves into themes of family dynamics, heritage, and the significance of personal integrity and identity.
3. “Sonny’s Blues” by James Baldwin: This short story revolves around the strained relationship between two brothers, Sonny and the unnamed narrator, as they navigate issues of addiction, redemption, and the search for identity in Harlem. Like “Thank You, M’am,” it explores themes of redemption, empathy, and the complexities of human connection.
4. “A Good Man is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor: O’Connor’s short story follows a family’s disastrous road trip that culminates in a confrontation with an escaped convict called The Misfit. Like “Thank You, M’am,” it explores moral ambiguity, the consequences of actions, and the possibility of redemption in unexpected circumstances.
5. “Boys and Girls” by Alice Munro: This short story depicts a young girl’s coming-of-age in rural Canada as she grapples with societal expectations, gender roles, and her evolving sense of self. Like “Thank You, M’am,” it delves into themes of personal growth, independence, and the pursuit of individual identity amidst societal pressures.

Suggested Readings about/on “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

Primary Source:

• Hughes, Langston, and Willa Freeman. Thank you, m’am. Creative Education, 1991.
• Hughes, Langston, et al. The Collected Works of Langston Hughes: Essays on art, race, politics, and world affairs. Vol. 9. University of Missouri Press, 2001.
• Rampersad, Arnold. The life of Langston Hughes: volume I: 1902-1941, I, too, sing America. Vol. 1. Oxford University Press, 2001.
• Tracy, Steven Carl. Langston Hughes & the blues. University of Illinois Press, 2001.
• Harper, Donna Sullivan. Not So Simple: The” Simple” Stories by Langston Hughes. University of Missouri Press, 1995.

Secondary Sources:

• Langston Hughes. SparkNotes. https://www.sparknotes.com/poetry/harlem/about-the-author/ (Since you don’t have a direct link, you can use the website name and a bracketed URL pointing to the general website).
• Langston Hughes’s Thank You, M’am. LitCharts. https://www.litcharts.com/lit/thank-you-m-am (Same as above for LitCharts).

Representative Quotations from “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes

Quotation	Context and Theorization
1. “She was a large woman with a large purse that had everything in it but hammer and nails.”	This description introduces Mrs. Jones as a formidable yet practical figure, symbolizing both her physical strength and her preparedness for any situation. The absence of “hammer and nails” implies that she carries everything except tools for violence, suggesting her preference for resolution through other means. Her purse serves as a metaphor for her ability to provide for others and to offer guidance and support.
2. “When I get through with you, sir, you are going to remember Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones.”	Mrs. Jones’s assertion of authority and determination to teach Roger a lesson reflects her strong sense of responsibility and commitment to guiding him towards redemption. This statement foreshadows the transformative impact she will have on Roger’s life and underscores her role as a mentor figure.
3. “I were young once and I wanted things I could not get.”	Mrs. Jones’s revelation of her own past desires and struggles humanizes her character and establishes a sense of empathy and understanding between her and Roger. By sharing her own experiences, she demonstrates vulnerability and encourages Roger to open up and connect with her on a deeper level.
4. “Do you need somebody to go to the store, maybe to get some milk or something?”	Roger’s offer to help Mrs. Jones reflects his desire to make amends and to show gratitude for her kindness towards him. This gesture signifies his growing sense of responsibility and empathy, as he seeks to assist her in return for her generosity.
5. “Here, take this ten dollars and buy yourself some blue suede shoes… I wish you would behave yourself, son, from here on in.”	Mrs. Jones’s parting gift of money for the blue suede shoes symbolizes her belief in Roger’s potential for positive change and her hope for his future. Her admonition to “behave yourself” reinforces her expectations of him and serves as a gentle reminder of the lessons he has learned under her guidance.
6. “He did not trust the woman not to trust him… And he did not want to be mistrusted now.”	Roger’s internal conflict reveals his fear of judgment and rejection, as well as his desire for acceptance and understanding from Mrs. Jones. This quote highlights the importance of trust and empathy in their relationship and underscores Roger’s longing for redemption and validation.
7. “The boy wanted to say something else other than ‘Thank you, m’am’ to Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones, but he couldn’t do so…”	Roger’s struggle to express his gratitude and admiration towards Mrs. Jones reflects his emotional growth and his realization of the impact she has had on his life. Despite his inability to articulate his feelings, his internal conflict underscores the depth of their connection and the significance of her influence on him.
8. “Then she said, ‘Now ain’t you ashamed of yourself?’ Firmly gripped by his shirt front, the boy said, ‘Yes’m.'”	Mrs. Jones confronts Roger with his actions and prompts him to acknowledge his wrongdoing, fostering a sense of accountability and self-awareness in him. Roger’s admission of shame signifies his recognition of the moral implications of his behavior and marks the beginning of his journey towards redemption under Mrs. Jones’s guidance.
9. “The water dripping from his face, the boy looked at her… After he had dried his face and not knowing what else to do dried it again, the boy turned around, wondering what next.”	This moment encapsulates Roger’s uncertainty and vulnerability as he navigates his interactions with Mrs. Jones. His actions convey a mixture of apprehension, gratitude, and curiosity about her intentions, reflecting his gradual acceptance of her guidance and his willingness to learn from her example.
10. “You could run, run, run, run, run!”	Roger’s internal monologue reveals his temptation to escape from Mrs. Jones’s influence and evade the consequences of his actions. This repetition of “run” emphasizes his inner turmoil and underscores the urgency of his decision regarding his future course of action. Ultimately, Roger’s choice to stay signifies his willingness to confront his mistakes and embrace the opportunity for redemption offered by Mrs. Jones.