Still Here

• by Stephanie Statham-Sullivan
• 4 years ago

This poem was in a textbook of mine from the sixth grade. As a child, it resonated with me. It inspired me to write poetry. As a child, educated by white folk, I had no idea who Langston Hughes was, nor his significance, but this poem stuck with me for years. As an adult over forty, I would attempt to find this poem. I've recited it to so many folks and no one knew who wrote it. One day, after reciting it to a great friend, he later surprised me with a leather bound, beautiful edition of The Complete Works of Langston Hughes. I devoured every word on every page and loved it. He is one of my favorite poets. I wanted my child to be taught the things that I was never taught about our people, our poets, novelists, pioneers, our history, etc...
He has a profound love for literature and is quite the prolific writer himself. I am so proud of our people and my son. Writing is his legacy and his poetry and writing will touch someone, as Mr. Langston Hughes' poetry touched and inspired me.