ESSENTIAL HUGHES

This recording offers the opportunity to hear Langston Hughes relate his experiences and explain his influences and approaches to poetry, as well as to enjoy his readings of his work. His voice is gentle and lively when speaking of his personal experiences. His voice for reading is more sonorous and reminiscent of the phrasing of the blues. Students, scholars, and aficionados of poetry, blues, jazz, and African-American history will value this significant primary source. Hearing Hughes describe his inspiration for “The Negro Speaks of Rivers” is a history lesson in itself, which his reading augments. The spirit of the poet, his ability to observe human behavior yet not despair, and his “bluesification” of his experiences into poetry are beautifully captured in this truly essential recording. R.F. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 08]