Introduction
“Salvation” by Langston Hughes is a poignant coming-of-age story about a young boy who has a religious revival and experiences a crisis of faith. The story centers around the themes of innocence, peer pressure, and the struggle between societal expectations and personal beliefs.
Summary
The story starts with the narrator anticipating a special church revival meeting, emphasizing the importance placed on this event by his community. Upon arriving at the church, the narrator finds himself surrounded by an atmosphere of intense religious fervor, with people crying, praying, and shouting (Hughes). The preacher’s sermon, focused on the salvation of young sinners, creates mounting pressure for the young boy.
As his aunt and other church members urge him to come forward and be “saved,” the narrator is torn between the desire to please his family and the reality of his lack of religious experience (Hughes). Eventually, feeling both the weight of societal expectations and the pressure of his peers, he succumbs to the feeling of betrayal and disappointment when he is unable to experience the revelation of salvation that everyone seems to be experiencing.
Conclusion
“Salvation” showcases the clash between societal influences and individual convictions. The relentless weight of conforming to societal norms forces the protagonist to question the legitimacy of their spiritual journey, leading them down a path of disillusionment. Hughes masterfully captures the inner turmoil experienced by countless young souls who find themselves torn between externally enforced beliefs and their relentless pursuit of personal truth.
Personal Reflection
In my opinion, “Salivation” presents a remarkable narrative that stimulates deep contemplation and evokes intense emotions while delving into the intricate complexities of religious encounters. Hughes masterfully portrays the internal struggle endured by the protagonist, vividly depicting the clash between the expectations imposed by society and the unwavering convictions held deep within. This tale serves as a poignant testimony to the significance of profound self-reflection and steadfastly embracing one’s authenticity, even when confronted with societal pressures.
Works Cited
Hughes, Langston. Salvation. n.d.