Reading: Not With Laughter, by Langston Hughes

 I just completed reading this book, by one of my favorite poets,

  Langston Hughes

        "Not Without Laughter" is a powerful exploration of African American life in the early 20th century. Through the story of a young boy named Sandy, Hughes examines themes of identity, family, and community, offering a vivid portrait of a world that is both unique and universal.

        At its core, "Not Without Laughter" is a coming-of-age story that follows Sandy as he navigates the challenges of growing up in a world that is often hostile to people of color. Sandy's journey is a deeply personal one, but it is also representative of the experiences of countless African Americans who were coming of age during this time period.

        One of the most striking aspects of the novel is the way in which Hughes portrays the complex dynamics of African American families. Sandy's mother, Annjee, is a hardworking woman who is determined to provide for her family, but she is also deeply conflicted about her role as a mother. She is often distant and preoccupied, leaving Sandy to fend for himself. Despite this, Sandy loves his mother deeply and is fiercely loyal to her.

        Sandy's relationship with his grandmother, Hager, is similarly complicated. Hager is a deeply religious woman who has strong opinions about how Sandy should be raised. She is often critical of Annjee, and she sees herself as the moral center of the family. Despite their disagreements, however, Sandy and Hager share a deep bond, and Hager serves as a source of strength and guidance for him throughout the novel.

        Through these and other characters, Hughes paints a rich and complex portrait of African American family life, showing how these relationships can be both sources of support and of tension.

        Another central theme of the novel is the importance of community. Throughout the book, Sandy is surrounded by a network of people who offer him guidance and support. From the members of his church to the teachers at his school, Sandy is constantly reminded that he is part of something larger than himself.

        This sense of community is particularly important given the many challenges that Sandy faces. He is often subjected to racism and discrimination, and he must navigate a world that is often hostile to people of color. Despite this, however, Sandy remains resilient and hopeful, buoyed by the knowledge that he is not alone in his struggles.

        Ultimately, "Not Without Laughter" is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Through Sandy's story, Hughes offers a vivid and compelling portrait of African American life during this time period, showing both the challenges and opportunities that existed for people of color. By the end of the novel, I was left with a sense of hope and possibility, and a renewed appreciation for the power of community and the importance of family.

currently listening to Brotha, by Angie Stone