Janeane's World: Published By James, Davis, and Associates

Empowering scholars to succeed and thrive through encouragement, inspiration, and motivation.

Scholarly Wisdom: Encouragement from Langston Hughes’ “Mother to Son”

Black mother and son snukubg

Today, we examine the Langston Hughes poem “Mother to Son” and its 3 Lessons for scholars. Discussing poetry is a great way to learn lessons more relaxedly than traditional learning methods.

Black mother and son snukubg

Mother to Son by Langston Hughes      

Well, son, I’ll tell you:

Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.

It’s had tacks in it,

And splinters,

And boards torn up,

And places with no carpet on the floor

Bare.

But all the time

I’se been a-climbin’ on,

And reachin’ landin’s,

And turnin‘ corners,

And sometimes goin’ in the dark

Where there ain’t been no light.

So, boy, don’t you turn back.

Don’t you set down on the steps.

‘Cause you finds it’s kinder hard.

Don’t you fall now—

For I’se still 1goin‘, honey,

I’se still climbin‘,

And life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.

As stated above, this great poem has 3 lessons for scholars These lessons are:  

  1. Sometimes life is hard. 
  2. There is always someone who sees you as a role model.
  3.  You can keep moving forward even if life is hard.

Langston Hughes’ poem “Mother to Son” offers timeless wisdom that speaks not only to entrepreneurs but also to scholars. In the poem, a mother shares with her son the harsh realities of life and the strength needed to overcome them. These lessons can also be applied to the academic journey, where scholars often face struggles, setbacks, and unexpected challenges. Here are three essential tips for scholars inspired by Hughes’ words:


1. Sometimes, Life is Hard—And That’s Okay.

In the poem, the mother tells her son, “Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.” This line acknowledges that life is not always smooth, nor is the academic journey. Scholars often face periods of doubt, frustration, and even failure. Whether it’s struggling with a difficult concept, facing setbacks in research, or dealing with the pressures of deadlines, it’s important to recognize that hard times are a natural part of the process.

Embrace the tough moments rather than avoiding them. Understanding that challenges are part of the learning experience will help you approach difficulties with resilience and determination. Just like the mother in the poem who continues to climb despite the broken steps and tacks, you too can keep pushing through academic obstacles. The key is to accept that hardship is a part of the journey, not something to be feared or avoided.


2. You Are a Role Model—Even When You Don’t Realize It.

The poem also reflects that we are all role models to others, whether we know it or not. Without any formal declaration, the mother models strength and perseverance for her son. Similarly, as a scholar, others are watching you whether you realize it or not. Professors, fellow students, and even younger generations look up to your work ethic, approach to challenges, and how you handle successes and setbacks.

It’s essential to recognize this responsibility and set a good example. Be kind, humble, and consistent in your work. How you carry yourself, handle stress, and approach learning can influence those around you. As you continue your academic journey, remember that your actions are not only shaping your future but also serving as an example to others who your determination may inspire.


3. Keep Moving Forward, Even When Life Feels Hard.

In the poem, the mother encourages her son to keep moving despite the obstacles in his path: “I’ve has been a-climbin’ on…and reachin’ landings, and turnin’ corners.” This is perhaps one of the most important lessons for scholars: no matter how difficult things get, you can keep moving forward.

There will be times when your academic journey feels overwhelming. You may face writer’s block, encounter research challenges, or feel you’re not progressing as quickly as you’d like. However, just like the mother who persists despite the worn stairs, you, too, must find ways to keep going. This doesn’t mean pushing yourself too hard or ignoring self-care, but it does mean not giving up when the road gets tough.

One strategy for moving forward during difficult times is to break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Celebrate small victories, and when things get overwhelming, take a short break to reset. Sometimes, just moving forward in small increments can make all the difference.


Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

Langston Hughes’ poem is about perseverance in tough times and the strength that comes from within. As a scholar, it’s vital to understand that challenges are part of the process and that your journey, with its ups and downs, will ultimately lead you to success. Keep pushing forward, know you are a role model, and embrace that life—and learning—can be hard sometimes. But that doesn’t mean you should stop.

What lessons can you take from this poem and apply to your academic path? Reflect on your experiences, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts with others—your insight might help someone else find their way.

If you want to read more about lessons for entrepreneurs, check out:

3 Lessons From People Who Refuse to Take Action Now

There are 3 lessons I have learned from people who refuse to TAN aka Take Action Now. A smart entrepreneur can learn something new every day if she tries. There are some people who take action now and get things done. Click here to read more.

and

“The Harder They Fall” and 3 Excellent Lessons for Entrepreneurs

Recently, I watched the Netflix movie, “The Harder They Fall” and it had three lessons for entrepreneurs. These lessons are: sometimes things are hard, you cannot sit around waiting for destiny, loyalty doesn’t last forever for everyone. Click here to read more.

Also, check out our Confidence Tip of the Day YouTube channel for hundreds of videos on creating the confidence you need to succeed.