Central Idea: A mother shares her struggles and life lessons with her son, urging him to stay strong and keep going despite hardships. Themes: Perseverance and Determination Racial Inequality and Hardship Motherly Love and Advice Hope and Strength in Adversity Message: Life is tough, especially for the oppressed, but one must never give up. Keep climbing despite obstacles. Characters: Mother (Speaker) – Wise, strong, and experienced Son (Listener) – Young and in need of guidance Setting: Unspecified, but reflects the experience of African-Americans in early 20th century America. Title Justification: The title “Mother to Son” is apt as the poem is a direct, heartfelt message from a mother to her son, sharing her life’s wisdom.
English Language & Literature