Editor's Choice
How does dialect contribute to Langston Hughes' "Thank You, M'am"?
Quick answer:
Dialect in Langston Hughes' "Thank You, M'am" enhances authenticity and character development. The use of informal, urban speech reflects the natural communication style of characters like Mrs. Jones and Roger, making them relatable and believable. Mrs. Jones's direct questions and Roger's respectful responses, such as "yes'm" and "no'm," underscore his youth and need for guidance, while also showcasing Hughes's commitment to portraying the genuine experiences of African-Americans in Harlem.
The dialect that the narrator, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones, and the boy, Roger, speak lends authenticity to the story's situation. When the narrator describes Mrs. Jones getting the upper hand on Roger when he tries to steal her purse, she "kicked him right square in his blue-jeaned sitter." The informal dialect is humorous and takes the edge off what could have been described more violently.
When Mrs. Jones asks Roger ,"Now ain’t you ashamed of yourself?" it is the kind of dialect that a working woman would feel natural and comfortable using and that Roger would be accustomed to hearing. This is a story about people who don't put on airs, and to use any other kind of language would alter their characterization and inject a note of falseness that would weaken the story's believability.
Roger's answers to Mrs. Jones's questions, humbled "yes'm"s and "no'm"s, help the reader understand...
Unlock This Answer Now
Start your 48-hour free trial and get ahead in class. Boost your grades with access to expert answers and top-tier study guides. Thousands of students are already mastering their assignments—don't miss out. Cancel anytime.
Already a member? Log in here.
that he is not a hardened criminal: he is just a boy who needs guidance and a second chance.
By using urban dialect in “Thank You M’am,” Langston Hughes adds to the authenticity of the short story.
During his many years as an author, Hughes used the native dialect of African-Americans living in Harlem in his work. He used his writing as a vehicle to advocate for “his” people, and to provide them with literature they could identify with.
In “Thank You, M’am,” Hughes incorporates the urban dialect in dialogue between characters, and through the statements presented by the narrator. In both cases, the dialect adds validity to the story. In addition, the intended audience can relate to the situations in the story because they are familiar.
As you read the dialogue between Mrs. Jones and Roger, you experience urban dialect that shows how the young man responds to the woman he attempted to victimize. Although he tried to steal her purse while she walked home from work, he calls her “M’am,” which is a term of respect. Langston Hughes shows the young man’s desperation, but also demonstrates how he was taught to respond to his elders. Mrs. Jones knows which questions are appropriate to ask Roger, and which ones to leave out of their conversation.
“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.