thesis statement for thank you ma'am

A Summary and Analysis of Langston Hughes’ ‘Thank You, Ma’am’

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

‘Thank You, Ma’am’ is a 1958 short story by the African-American poet, novelist, and short-story writer Langston Hughes (1901-67). In the story, a teenage boy attempts to steal a woman’s purse, but she catches him and takes him back to her home, showing him some kindness and attempting to teach him right from wrong.

Plot summary

The story begins by introducing a ‘large woman’ who carries a ‘large purse’ slung over her shoulder. Late one night, she is walking alone when a boy tries to steal her purse, but because it is so heavy, he ends up falling backwards. She kicks him in the backside before shaking him vigorously and ordering him to retrieve her purse from the ground. She then asks him if he is ashamed of himself for trying to rob her.

The boy, who is dressed in tennis shoes and blue jeans, is around fourteen or fifteen years old and clearly intimidated by the large, imposing older woman. She comments on how dirty his face is and it emerges that the boy is not taken care of at home, so the woman takes him back to her home to wash his face.

The boy just wants her to let him go, but she reminds him that he was the one who imposed himself upon her when she was minding her business. She reveals that her name is Mrs Luella Bates Washington Jones. She comments that if the boy were her son, she would teach him right from wrong.

Once she has the boy inside the house she shares with other people, she asks his name, which he reveals to be Roger. She takes him into the kitchenette and finally lets go of him, ordering him to go to the sink and wash his face. Although Roger initially considers making a run for it, he does as he is bid and goes to the sink.

As the two of them talk, Mrs Jones learns that Roger attempted to steal her pocketbook because he wants money to buy some blue suede shoes. She tells him he could’ve just asked her for the money: a response which confuses Roger. Again, he thinks of running for it, afraid that she will take him to jail, but instead, when she offers to cook him something to eat, he sits down and behaves himself.

Indeed, he even resists the temptation to steal her purse, which she leaves on the table close to him while she goes behind the screen to prepare the food. He offers to go to the shop to get food for her if she needs it, and when she asks if he wants to get some sweet milk for the cocoa she’s preparing, he says that canned milk will be fine.

As they eat, she tells him about her job in a hotel beauty-shop, and offers him some cake. Then she gives Roger ten dollars and tells him to buy himself the blue suede shoes he wants, but not to try to steal from her or anybody else again, because shoes bought from ill-gotten gains would ‘burn your feet’.

As Roger leaves, he wants to thank her more fulsomely than simply saying ‘Thank you, ma’am’, but finds he is unable to. The third-person narrator of the story tells us that he never saw her again.

In this very short story, Langston Hughes suggests that all teenagers who have fallen into a life of petty crime need is someone to put them back on the straight and narrow, and Mrs Luella Jones is the person who does this for Roger in ‘Thank You, Ma’am’.

The story presents the details of the narrative in generally direct terms, with Langston Hughes’ third-person narrator rarely passing comment or providing extra detail which can help to fill in the gaps to the two central characters’ lives.

This means that the story contains some tantalising lacunae, or missing details. Although ‘Mrs’ Luella Bates Washington Jones must have got married at some point, there is no sign of her husband in the story, and she appears to live in a rented room in a larger house which she shares with other people. Is she divorced? Did her husband die? Or is he in jail, and this explains why she takes such an interest in helping Roger set his life back on the right track: she doesn’t want him to go the same way?

Similarly, she appears not to have any children of her own, although at one point, she tells Roger that he ‘ought to be’ her son because she could give him the moral compass he so badly needs. Is this the yearning of a childless woman who tried to have a son or daughter of her own but never managed to conceive?

Meanwhile, other women are able to have children but are either unable or unwilling to be proper mothers to them (she clearly isn’t impressed with the indifference, or absence, of Roger’s parents: he tells her that nobody is at home even though it is late at night by this stage).

The end of ‘Thank You, Ma’am’ also leaves things open to our interpretation and analysis. Roger is seemingly overwhelmed by the woman’s kindness and clemency: he feared she was going to turn him over to the police, but instead she gave him the money to buy the shoes he wants (curiously, Elvis Presley’s hit song ‘ Blue Suede Shoes ’ had been released just two years before Langston Hughes published his story). This is presumably why he is unable to say more than ‘thank you, ma’am’ to his benefactress as he leaves her home.

At the same time, the narrator tells us that he never saw her again after this chance encounter one night. This leads us to speculate: would Roger listen to her advice and learn from what had happened? Would he, from now on, decide against stealing things because she had been kind to him and he had had a narrow brush with justice?

Of course, we can only speculate on this issue. On the one hand, Mrs Jones provides Roger with both understanding and guidance: she tells him that she had done some things which she is so ashamed of she would never tell him about them, implying that she has been in a similar position in her own life before, but now leads a moral, honest life. Although Hughes never specifies the ethnicities of the two characters, given Hughes’ depictions of African-American life in Harlem, many readers will probably picture them both as black, so this arguably brings the two of them together.

But on the other hand, Mrs Jones will disappear from Roger’s life after this night. His chaotic home life will not. Whilst ‘Thank You, Ma’am’ shows how kindness and understanding may help a youth who has fallen into bad ways recover his moral honesty and integrity, the ending of the story remains ambiguous concerning the long-term fate of its adolescent protagonist.

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

“Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes was first published in 1958 in the collection “The Selected Short Stories of Langston Hughes”.

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

Table of Contents

“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

• Encounter with Mrs. Jones : Roger, a young boy, attempts to snatch Mrs. Jones’s purse but fails. She catches him and drags him home.
• Acts of Kindness : Rather than turning him over to the police, Mrs. Jones takes Roger to her home, providing him food and cleanliness.
• Revelations about Roger : Mrs. Jones learns about Roger’s troubled home life and lack of guidance.
• Mrs. Jones’s Moral Guidance : She shares her own experiences and imparts wisdom to Roger about making better choices in life.
• Roger’s Guilt and Remorse : Roger starts to feel guilty for his actions and becomes remorseful for trying to steal from Mrs. Jones.
• Transformation through Responsibility : Mrs. Jones gives Roger the opportunity to wash his face and teaches him the importance of personal responsibility.
• Redemption through Kindness : Despite Roger’s attempted theft, Mrs. Jones treats him with kindness, showing him that he is worthy of respect and care.
• 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.
• Character Growth : Roger learns valuable lessons about accountability, empathy, and the importance of second chances.
• 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

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

Major characters:.

• 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.
• 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:

• 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

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

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

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

• “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.
• “ 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.
• “ 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.
• “ 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.
• “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

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Thank You, M'am

By langston hughes.

"Thank You, M'am" is an American short story written by Langston Hughes.

The story was published in 1958 and is not in the public domain. That's particularly unfortunate because not only is it a great example of the short story form in general, it's also one of those important short stories that carries great social value and has the ability to teach and instruct its readers. While we cannot publish the full text, fair use policy allows me to provide a summary and overview of the story.

The story features two characters; Roger and Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones.

They meet when Roger attempts to steal her purse as she is walking home late at night. Roger loses his balance, and Mrs. Jones, who seems to be a substantial woman, first kicks him in the behind as he is sprawled on the sidewalk, and then hauls him up and shakes him. She has the boy pick up her purse, and begins to dress him down. Then the story takes a turn,

"Um-hum! And your face is dirty. I got a great mind to wash your face for you. Ain't you got nobody home to tell you to wash your face?"

"No'm," said the boy.

"Then it will get washed this evening," said the large woman starting up the street, dragging the frightened boy behind her.

And with those simple lines, Hughes affects a magical transformation turning a tough old black woman into everyone's mother and a young hoodlum into everyone's friend, brother or son. By explaining the crime -- it's out of a child's impoverished necessity -- and humanizing the characters, he makes us understand that Roger is not a bad kid as much as he is a kid trapped in difficult circumstances.

After a bit more physical and verbal trouncing, Mrs. Jones' course of action is clear:

"But you put yourself in contact with me," said the woman. "If you think that that contact is not going to last awhile, you got another thought coming. When I get through with you, sir, you are going to remember Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones."

Sweat popped out on the boy's face and he began to struggle.

Mrs. Jones puts the boy in a half-nelson and drags him up the street and into her house where the "tough love" lightens up on the toughness and starts to load up a bit on the love. She feeds him, lectures him gently, and gives him the money he was attempting to steal so that he may buy the blue suede shoes that he needs.

Then the story concludes:

She led him down the hall to the front door and opened it. "Goodnight! Behave yourself, boy!" she said, looking out into the street.

The boy wanted to say something else other than, "Thank you, m'am" to Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones, but although his lips moved, he couldn't even say that as he turned at the foot of the barren stoop and looked back at the large woman in the door. Then she shut the door.

Although some sources cite 1933 as the date of publication, I believe the correct date is 1958. To put things in historical context, Martin Luther King Jr. was leading the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement following the Montgomery Bus Boycott of 1955, which followed on the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education ruling making segregation illegal (in law if not yet in practice). While it was not universal, the fact remains that there was a racial divide in the country and some white folks did harbor racial animosity towards blacks. Although often cast as a regional bias of the southern United States, it was a problem that found its home in larger cities throughout the country as well.

This story has always been particularly powerful to me due to an experience I had at a weekend market in an eastern city. One of the vendors there sold old black and white photographs, including old crime scene photos. As I looked through them, I began to notice the callous and even careless attitude displayed by the white detectives captured in the background of the photos with black victims. They were often captured smiling, enjoying a cigar or cigarette, waiting for the photographer to finish his business and their attitudes contrasted sharply with the seriousness they portrayed when white victims were involved. Those images stuck in my head, and made think about what things were like during that time (the photos were probably from the 1920s and 1930s).

I believe that one of the (several) wonderful thing that Langston Hughes did with "Thank You, M'am" was to strike a perfect balance with the racial and moral elements of the story. The characters are unmistakably African-American but it is not a story about African-Americans. Skin color is present and well represented in vernacular, but that is not the story's point. He draws our attention to poverty -- why is an older woman having to work a job that causes her to walk home late at night, why can't a young boy be properly clothed, fed, and cared for -- but the poverty is part of the story without ever becoming an excuse. And that sets the stage for the message of the story, that respect, decency and love transcend race and class, that they are wonderful things that can cure all sorts of difficulties and hardships.

Departing further from the literary analysis, I have some additional thoughts related to this story.

The question of race relations in America is still decades away from being an easy one. Even today the complexity and contradictions are clear; we have a twice-elected black president but we also have "the knock-out game" raging in the background (Fall/Winter of 2013/2014). But no matter how difficult and complex that question remains, it will always find some answers in this simple short story by Langston Hughes that helps us to see that we are all the same and that no matter how difficult any one personal situation may be, it's probably a situation that can changed and improved with acts of kindness.

It's noteworthy to point out that the story may have some autobiographical elements for the author. This is not to suggest Langston Hughes was out mugging old ladies, but that he himself had been separated from his parents as a young boy and was forced to live with his grandmother who raised him. I'd like to imagine that some of his Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones' kindness was also present in his grandmother and that the hardships of his youth led to the tremendous empathy he put into this story.

Return to the Langston Hughes library

Thank You, Ma’am

Thank you, ma’am lyrics.

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“Thank You, Ma'am” is a American short story written by Langston Hughes.

The story was published in 1958 and it is a great example of the short story form in general. It’s also one of those important short stories that carries great social value and has the ability to teach and instruct its readers.

The story features two characters; Roger and Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones.

They meet when Roger attempts to steal her purse as she is walking home late at night. Roger loses his balance, and Mrs. Jones, who seems to be a substantial woman, first kicks him in the behind as he is sprawled on the sidewalk, and then hauls him up and shakes him. She has the boy pick up her purse, and begins to dress him down. Then the story takes a turn.

http://americanliterature.com/author/langston-hughes/short-story/thank-you-mam

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“Thank you M’am” by Lanston Hughes Literary Critique Essay

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Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones has an unusual response to being assaulted by Roger. Do you think her response is purposeful? If so, what is she trying to do? Is she successful?

It is indisputable that no one likes thieves of robbers. For peaceful and harmonious existence within societies, many people are called upon to fight various vices, theft and assault inclusive. Hughes’ short story aims at promoting actions of individuals within societies in a bid to eliminating various vices especially in respect to stealing and assaulting others.

Nonetheless, from the story, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones acts unusually with respect to being assaulted by Roger. It is unusual for an individual to treat another person especially one engaged in assault or stealing the way Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones treats Roger after the incident.

This is only possible within a virtual world and not in reality. In reality, it would be expected that such individuals should be disciplined without any mercy. After all, charity begins at home no wonder, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones says, “You ought to be my son. I would teach you right from wrong. Least I can do right now is to wash your face. Are you hungry?” (Hughes).

From the perspective of the whole story, there is no doubt that Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones’ response was purposeful. A purposeful response usually aims at changing the behavior of an individual without inflicting any pain. If pain was inflicted on Roger then it would have been difficult for him to change positively.

In any case, inflicting pain on a child leads to increased intimidation and fear hence making it difficult to change his behavior. Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones treats Roger positively thus creating a room for him to change his behavior. While creating a favorable environment, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones ensures that Roger changes his behavior.

She asserts that, “Well, you didn’t have to snatch my pocketbook to get some suede shoes,” said Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones. “You could of asked me.” (Hughes). This means that she is liberal and understands the plight of children hence her response was purposeful. In addition, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones says that, “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 be devilish like that will burn your feet. I got to get my rest now. But I wish you would behave yourself, son, from here on in” (Hughes). In this regards, despite the assault she received from the boy, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones acts positively in changing the behavior of Roger.

Through Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones’ purposeful response, she aims at creating an environment where Roger can change his behavior without any intimidation. Her aim was to change Roger’s behavior without inflicting pain on the child. Even though many people believe in punishments that inflict pain on wrong-doers, it is obvious from the story that other modes of punishment may be effective.

In any case, the story outlines the fact that most wrong-doers engage in various unwarranted behaviors due to their status in life. For instance, Roger is engaged in stealing and assaulting Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones since he wanted suede shoes but had no means of achieving the need. In conclusion, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones is very successful in changing the behavior of Roger.

Works Cited

Hughes, Lanston. Thank you M’am. South Croydon, London: Creative Education, 1991.

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Thank You, M’am

Langston hughes.

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Empathy, Kindness, and Punishment

Langston Hughes’s “Thank You, M’am” tells the story of a young boy, Roger , who meets an older woman, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones , while attempting to steal her purse. When Roger is initially confronted by the firm and imposing Mrs. Jones, he clearly believes he will be punished for his crime; indeed, she takes him in hand, kicks him “square in the blue-jeaned sitter,” and shakes him “until his teeth rattled.” Yet it…

Family, Community, and Home

“Thank You, M’am” narrates the events of one night for Roger , a young boy, and Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones , the older woman he attempts to rob. Rather than reporting Roger to the police or take other legal action, Mrs. Jones offers the boy motherly guidance and a temporary home. Her unexpected choice can be read through the historical background of the story’s implied setting: Hughes was a central figure in the early…

Choice vs. Circumstance

“Thank You, M’am” demonstrates that individuals make better choices—and even become more upstanding, more moral people—when they are honest about their shortcomings and mistakes. A more stereotypical, less nuanced version of this story might have blamed or excused Roger ’s attempted theft of Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones ’s purse on his income, race, or class. Instead, through observing the series of decisions made by Roger and Mrs. Jones, Hughes’s story presents a more complex…

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Prompt examples for "thank you, ma'am" essays, character analysis: mrs. luella bates washington jones.

Explore the character of Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones. What kind of person is she, and how does her character evolve throughout the story? What motivates her actions, and what do they reveal about her values and principles?

The Theme of Forgiveness and Redemption

Analyze the theme of forgiveness and redemption in the story. How does Mrs. Jones respond to Roger's attempt to steal her purse? What is the significance of her decision to show kindness and understanding? What message does this theme convey?

Roger's Transformation

Discuss Roger's character development throughout the narrative. How does his encounter with Mrs. Jones impact him, both emotionally and morally? What lessons does he learn from the experience, and how does he change as a result?

Social and Economic Context

Examine the social and economic context of the story. How do the circumstances of Mrs. Jones and Roger reflect broader issues of poverty, desperation, and opportunity? How does this context influence the characters' actions and decisions?

Symbolism: The Purse

Analyze the symbolism of Mrs. Jones's large purse. What does it symbolize in the story, and how does it represent her character and values? How does the purse serve as a focal point for the narrative's central conflict?

Choice and Consequence

Explore the theme of choice and consequence in "Thank You, Ma'am." How do the choices made by Mrs. Jones and Roger affect the outcome of the story? What broader message about the consequences of one's actions can be derived from the narrative?

Langston Hughes's Writing Style

Analyze Langston Hughes's writing style in the story. What literary techniques and devices does he employ to convey the characters' emotions and the story's themes? How does his use of dialogue, imagery, and symbolism enhance the narrative?

Empathy and Compassion

Discuss the themes of empathy and compassion as portrayed in the story. How do these qualities manifest in the characters of Mrs. Jones and Roger? What can readers learn from their interactions about the importance of understanding and empathy in society?

The Title's Significance

Examine the significance of the story's title, "Thank You, Ma'am." What does it reveal about the central theme and message of the narrative? How does it encapsulate the essence of the story's moral lesson?

Modern Relevance

Consider the modern relevance of "Thank You, Ma'am." How do the themes and lessons of the story apply to contemporary society? Are there real-world situations or issues that parallel the events in the narrative?

Hook Examples for "Thank You, Ma'am" Essays

Anecdotal hook.

"As I followed the unexpected encounter between Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones and Roger, I couldn't help but reflect on the transformative power of compassion and second chances."

Rhetorical Question Hook

"What does it take for a simple act of kindness to change the course of someone's life? Langston Hughes' 'Thank You, Ma'am' prompts us to explore themes of empathy, redemption, and forgiveness."

Startling Quote Hook

"'I have done things, too, which I would not tell you, son—neither tell God, if he didn't already know.' Mrs. Jones' confession encapsulates the story's message of redemption and the human capacity for change."

Historical Hook

"Set against the backdrop of Harlem during the mid-20th century, 'Thank You, Ma'am' offers a glimpse into the social and cultural dynamics of the time. Exploring this historical context provides depth to the narrative."

Narrative Hook

"Step into the shoes of Mrs. Jones and Roger as they navigate their unexpected encounter and the lessons it imparts. This narrative captures the essence of Langston Hughes' storytelling."

Character Transformation Hook

"Witness Roger's transformation from a would-be thief to a young man touched by kindness and forgiveness. Analyzing the character arc adds depth to the narrative."

Empathy and Redemption Hook

"How does the theme of empathy lead to redemption in 'Thank You, Ma'am'? Delving into the emotional aspects of the story sheds light on the power of human connection."

Life Lessons Hook

"What life lessons can we glean from Mrs. Jones' act of kindness and Roger's response? Exploring the moral and ethical dimensions of the story prompts reflection on our own actions."

Social Impact Hook

"In a world marked by social divisions, 'Thank You, Ma'am' serves as a reminder of the potential for positive change through compassion. Examining the story's social impact offers valuable insights."

Langston Hughes' Legacy Hook

"How does 'Thank You, Ma'am' contribute to Langston Hughes' literary legacy? Exploring the story's place in Hughes' body of work reveals its enduring significance in American literature."

Character Analysis of Roger in "Thank You Ma'am" by Langston Hughes

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An Analysis of "Thank You Ma'am" Written by Langston Hughes

Good and evil in langston hughes' "thank you ma'am", analysis of mrs. jones from "thank you, m'am" by langston hughes, analysis of mrs.jones character in thank you, ma’am, let us write you an essay from scratch.

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The Characterization of The Female Protagonists in "Thank You Ma'am" and "Story of an Hour"

Langston hughes’ message in his poem thank you, ma'am, analysis of the character of mrs. jones in thank you, m’am by langston hughes, literary analysis of thank you ma’am langston hughes, themes in thank you ma am.

1958, Langston Hughes

Short story; Urban Fiction, Literary Realism

Roger, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones

The story is based on the African American segregation and life in the 1950s.

African Americans, racism, friendship, segregation, a challenging life of the American South.

It is the short story where a young person learns about friendship and care. It speaks of the African American poverty, prejudice, and segregation in society. It has a rising action as a dynamic story, which makes it as powerful as it is.

It is a great short story where a young African American boy learns a lesson about being kind, sincere, and caring for others even though the setting may look totally different. It tells us about being good for others and having others do so to you as well. Starting with a thief attempt, the story unfolds to forgiveness and love.

Mrs. Jones represents the contents of a woman's life with all its challenges and sorrows. The purse that Mrs. Jones carries is a metaphor of all the burdens that she always carries along. Trying to tear the purse away, the young Roger is a symbolism of taking all the heaviness away by assisting Mrs. Jones in offering help. The young Roger is a communication bridge between present and the past for Mrs. Jones, which is a reflection of hope for our society. Thank you, ma'am is a great reminder of kindness through the lens of our prejudice and stereotypes we all live in. It has a Biblical influence of being kind and making just a single step to help us prevent the crime. The shoes that Roger has dreamt of is another symbolism of receiving a helping hand that will assist him in walking through a different path now.

"A large woman with a large purse that had everything ... but hammer and nails." "Roger ... looked at the woman—looked at the door—and went to the sink." "I have done things, too, which I would not tell you, son—neither tell God." "And he did not want to be mistrusted now." "I wanted a pair of blue suede shoes."

The main message is about forgiveness and empathy, the power of love, trust, and the Christian values. It is the complex mixture of a person's character VS society, which is explained by oppression to racism.

It is not only a topic of African American segregation, poverty, and prejudice, it is also a lesson of forgiveness and kindness. Since we see gangs almost daily as we watch the news or talk to friends, this short story must be used as the essay topic to talk about kindness, caring for each other, and trying to choose a different way.

1. Cox, M. (1988). Revising the literature curriculum for a pluralist society. The English Journal, 77(6), 30-34. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/818610) 2. Spaulding, A. T. (1997). A Gathering of Voices. Carolina Quarterly, 50(1), 86. (https://www.proquest.com/openview/99e380b173fb27caca4fd4af1a9c1486/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=1820998) 3. Benonguil, J. A. M. (2022). Stylistic Analysis of the Short Story “Thank You, Ma'am” by Langston Hughes. Canadian Journal of Language and Literature Studies, 2(6), 45-52. (https://cjlls.ca/index.php/cjlls/article/view/77) 4. Sussman, T., Mintzberg, S., Sinai-Glazer, H., Venturato, L., Strachan, P. H., & Kaasalainen, S. (2022). Slam Bam, Thank you, Ma’am: The Challenges of Advance Care Planning Engagement in Long-Term Care. Canadian Journal on Aging/La Revue canadienne du vieillissement, 41(3), 443-450. (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/canadian-journal-on-aging-la-revue-canadienne-du-vieillissement/article/slam-bam-thank-you-maam-the-challenges-of-advance-care-planning-engagement-in-longterm-care/1A9C72137C3E7B7B497A7882C481FF2D) 5. Kutzinski, V. M. (2012). The Worlds of Langston Hughes: Modernism and Translation in the Americas. Cornell University Press. (https://library.oapen.org/handle/20.500.12657/31506) 6. Patterson, A. H. (2000). Jazz, Realism, and the Modernist Lyric: The Poetry of Langston Hughes. MLQ: Modern Language Quarterly, 61(4), 651-682. (https://muse.jhu.edu/article/22879) 7. Edwards, B. H. (2007). Langston Hughes and the futures of diaspora. American Literary History, 19(3), 689-711. (https://academic.oup.com/alh/article-abstract/19/3/689/169252)

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Thank You Ma'am Analysis - Setting, Characters, and Themes by Langston Hughes

Updated 22 July 2022

Subject Books ,  Writers

Downloads 41

Category Literature

Topic Langston Hughes ,  Poetry ,  Thank You Ma Am

Thank You Ma'am Analysis

In this Thank You Ma'am analysis, I'll talk about the Setting, Characters, and Themes of this powerful piece by Langston Hughes. After reading the poem, you should have a better idea of why the story is so compelling. If you haven't read it yet, it's well worth reading. It is an excellent example of the importance of reading a piece of literature thoroughly before deciding whether or not to study it further.

The short story "Thank You, Ma'am" by Langston Hughes has a few key themes that focus on shame, dignity, and second chances. The story follows the life of a fifteen-year-old boy, Roger, and a kindhearted woman, Mrs. Luella Jones. In the short story, the power of choice is highlighted through the dialogue that Roger exchanges with the woman. In this thank you ma'am analysis, we will explore how Mrs. Jones changes Roger's perspective through the interaction with her.

Despite the short story having only two characters, Langston Hughes used indirect characterization to establish their personalities. This method of development allowed the reader to see a different side of each character than the main character, which allowed the audience to see both of them through a broader perspective. In the story, the two main characters, Roger and Luella, are described as being different and unique. The similarities between the two characters are evident in both their differences and similarities.

"Setting a Thank You Ma'am" by Langston Hughes can be difficult to pinpoint. Although the story is written in the 1950s, Hughes didn't explicitly state where the story takes place. The story itself is based around race and racism in pre-Civil Rights Era America. The story's setting, however, is an important part of the overall context. As such, setting can provide insight into the character's motivations.

The story is set in Harlem, New York, and depicts the complexities of second chances. As the main character, Roger, a young man in need of basic necessities, is trying to steal the purse from Mrs. Jones, he stumbles and falls to the floor, but Mrs. Jones kicks him mercilessly. As a result, the plot of the story becomes more complex than initially suspected.

Langston Hughes's story "Thank You, Ma'am" is about trust and dignity. In the story, a boy, Roger, tries to steal a woman's pocketbook, but she forgave him for trying. She also feeds him, making him lima beans and ham, and serving him hot cocoa. Mrs. Jones's compassion for Roger helps him understand her situation, and she forgives him later.

Despite the conflict in the story, the main theme of the short story is the importance of second chances. Both Langston Hughes' story and Saki's story feature themes of forgiveness and kindness. These themes are woven throughout both stories in a subtle way. Themes are a key aspect of these stories, and these themes are often hidden in unexpected places. In "Thank You, Ma'am," for example, the theme is hidden in the beginning, but it is not obvious until the end.

Themes in Langston Hughes' "Thank You Ma'am"

The theme of poverty dominates the plot of "Thank You Ma'am." The protagonist, Roger, tries to steal Mrs. Jones' purse in order to buy shoes. Hughes depicts this poor character in subtle ways, such as by showing her living in a rooming house with a small kitchen and late hours. She also addresses her own poverty in a direct dialogue with Roger.

Themes in Langston Hughes' "Thank you Ma'am" can be categorized into two broad categories. Themes of kindness and trust are prevalent, as are the themes of poverty and racism. The protagonist, Roger, is a young black boy who attempts to steal a purse from a white woman. In response, Mrs. Jones feeds and teaches him to be grateful and give back. In a way, this story is about caring for the disadvantaged and the poor.

Despite its complexity, "Thank You Ma'am" is a short story about the power of kindness. Although it involves a flippant young boy named Roger, it portrays the struggles and triumphs of two different worlds. In a time of racism, the story depicts the culture and values of 1950s America, and Hughes uses literary devices to create a twist in the reader's expectations. In doing so, the author develops a deeper meaning for the African characters.

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