Thank You Ma Am Langston Hughes Analysis

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When he was finally released from the grip of Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones, Roger had a choice. He could run out the front door, far from her and any repercussions, or he could stay, and wash his face as she asked. He chose to walk to the sink. Why do you think that he decided to stay? In “Thank You, Ma’am”, Langston Hughes communicates the story of a boy named Roger and his encounter with a lady named Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones. Roger attempts to steal the purse of the woman but loses his balance, falls, and gets caught by her. She brings him to her home and offers the young boy to wash his face in the sink and a bite to eat. Roger’s decision to stay instead of scampering is caused by Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones’ hospitality …show more content…

Luella Bates Washington Jones is that of a warm-hearted women. She makes it apparent that she wants the boy to get his face cleaned as is evident when she proclaims that she “got a great mind to wash [his] face for [him].” to which he counters that he has no one at home to supervise him. In return, the lady tells him that “it will get washed this evening.” She also asks the boy for his name and if he is hungry in an attempt to be open and approachable towards him. Roger senses that the large woman has good intentions and does not want to maltreat him, which fuels his reaction to ease up around her. Another reason the boy decides to wash his face rather than running away is due to Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones being strict with him, but not in a destructive manner. She understands that Roger has no guidance and thus offers him her counseling as much as she can as a stranger. One way she does so is by grabbing Roger’s collar. With that gesture, the boy understands that he is in trouble, yet he does not fight her off. He does not kick or punch her, nor does he scream for help at the bystanders around. He is frightened and intimidated but soon learns that Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones only means well, as shows when she 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?” Hence, she proffers him the discipline that he lacks and is in need

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