Salvation (Langston Hughes)

Saved From Innocence In most people’s lives, there comes a point in time where their perception changes abruptly; a single moment in their life when they come to a sudden realization. In Langston Hughes’ “Salvation”, contrary to all expectations, a young Hughes is not saved by Jesus, but is saved from his own innocence. “Salvation” is the story of a young boy who has an experience of revelation. While attending a church revival, he …

…he went from being an innocent child to someone who has acquired the personal experience to make his own judgements. Through “Salvation”, Langston Hughes offers his thoughts on how young individuals’ minds can be manipulated by religious authorities. However, he stresses that it is important to keep a strong mind to be able to make wise decisions. Work Cited Hughes, Langston. “Salvation.” Literature for Composition. Ed. Sylvan Barnet et al. 5th ed. New York: Longman, 2000, 181.