Mother to Son

Front

What does the phrase 'Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair' imply about the mother's life?

Back

It implies that her life has not been easy or luxurious.

Front

What do 'boards with tacks and splinters' symbolize in the poem?

Back

They symbolize a life that has had many difficulties and challenges.

Front

What does the term 'crystal' mean in the context of the poem?

Back

In this context, 'crystal' means clear and smooth.

Front

What is a major theme of the poem 'Mother to Son'?

Back

A major theme is to persevere when life isn't easy.

Front

Who is the author of the poem 'Mother to Son'?

Back

The author is Langston Hughes.

Front

What does the mother encourage her son to do in the poem?

Back

She encourages him to keep going and not give up despite challenges.

Front

What literary device is used in the phrase 'Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair'?

Back

This phrase uses metaphor to compare life to a staircase.

Front

What does the mother mean by saying her life has 'tacks and splinters'?

Back

She means her life has been filled with hardships and obstacles.

Front

How does the mother describe the journey of life in the poem?

Back

She describes it as a difficult journey with many struggles.

Front

What does the mother want her son to understand about life?

Back

She wants him to understand that life is tough but worth persevering through.