Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” is a witty and touching story about the joys and challenges of marriage. Set in the 1950s, the story follows the lovable and charismatic character Simple as he navigates his way through the ups and downs of married life. With its blend of humor and heart, this story is a must-read for anyone who has ever been in love or tied the knot.
The Characters
The characters in Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” are a diverse and colorful group, each with their own unique quirks and personalities. At the center of the story is Simple, a lovable and somewhat naive man who is eager to find love and settle down. His new wife, Joyce, is a strong-willed and independent woman who challenges Simple’s traditional views on marriage and gender roles. Other notable characters include Simple’s friend, Buddy, who provides comic relief with his outrageous antics, and Joyce’s mother, who disapproves of her daughter’s choice in husband. Together, these characters create a rich and engaging story that explores the complexities of love and marriage in a humorous and poignant way.
The Setting
The setting of Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” is Harlem in the 1950s. The story takes place in a small apartment where Simple, a middle-aged man, lives with his friend, Buddy. The apartment is described as cramped and cluttered, with a single bed and a small kitchenette. The neighborhood is also depicted as a bustling and lively place, with people constantly coming and going. The setting serves as a backdrop for the humorous and poignant tale of love and marriage that unfolds between Simple and his new wife, Joyce. Despite the challenges they face, including Simple’s reluctance to commit and Joyce’s desire for a better life, the couple’s love for each other shines through in the vibrant setting of Harlem.
The Plot
In “Simple Takes a Wife,” Langston Hughes tells the story of Jesse B. Semple, also known as Simple, and his journey into marriage. Simple, a beloved character in Hughes’ works, is a witty and insightful man who often finds himself in humorous situations. In this tale, Simple meets a woman named Joyce and falls in love. However, their relationship is not without its challenges. Simple must navigate the complexities of marriage and learn to balance his own desires with those of his wife. The plot is both humorous and poignant, as Simple’s struggles and triumphs in love are relatable to readers of all backgrounds. Hughes’ writing style is engaging and entertaining, making “Simple Takes a Wife” a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming story about love and marriage.
The Theme of Love
The theme of love is central to Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife.” The story follows the courtship and marriage of Simple, a lovable and humorous character, and Joyce, a practical and no-nonsense woman. Despite their differences, the two fall in love and navigate the ups and downs of married life. Hughes’ portrayal of their relationship is both humorous and poignant, highlighting the joys and challenges of love and marriage. Through Simple and Joyce’s story, Hughes reminds us that love is not always easy, but it is worth fighting for.
The Theme of Marriage
Marriage is a theme that has been explored in literature for centuries. It is a complex and multifaceted topic that can be approached from many different angles. In Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife,” the theme of marriage is explored through the lens of humor and poignancy. The story follows the marriage of Simple, a character who is known for his wit and charm, as he navigates the ups and downs of married life. Through Simple’s experiences, Hughes offers a unique perspective on the joys and challenges of marriage, highlighting the importance of communication, compromise, and commitment. Whether you are married or single, “Simple Takes a Wife” is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of this timeless theme.
The Use of Humor
Humor is a powerful tool in literature, and Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” is a prime example of how it can be used to great effect. Through the character of Simple, Hughes injects a lightheartedness into what could otherwise be a heavy and serious story about love and marriage. Simple’s wit and charm make him a lovable character, and his humorous observations on life and love add a layer of depth to the story. By using humor, Hughes is able to explore complex themes in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The Poignant Moments
One of the most poignant moments in Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” occurs when Simple’s wife, Joyce, reveals to him that she is pregnant. Simple, who had been hesitant about the idea of marriage in the first place, is initially taken aback by the news. However, as Joyce explains her hopes and dreams for their future family, Simple begins to see the beauty and potential in their situation. This moment highlights the complexities of love and marriage, and the ways in which unexpected events can bring people closer together.
The Role of Gender
In Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife,” the role of gender is a central theme. The story explores the traditional gender roles of the time, with men expected to be the breadwinners and women expected to be homemakers. However, the character of Joyce challenges these gender norms by working outside of the home and asserting her independence. Simple, on the other hand, struggles with his own masculinity and the expectations placed upon him as a husband. Through their interactions, Hughes highlights the complexities of gender roles and the ways in which they can both limit and empower individuals.
The Social Commentary
Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” is not just a love story, but a social commentary on the expectations and limitations placed on African American women in the mid-20th century. The character of Joyce, Simple’s new wife, is a representation of the struggles faced by black women during this time period. Despite her intelligence and ambition, Joyce is forced to give up her dreams of becoming a nurse in order to fulfill the traditional role of a wife and mother. Hughes uses humor to highlight the absurdity of these societal expectations, but also brings attention to the very real consequences they had on the lives of African American women. Through Simple and Joyce’s relationship, Hughes sheds light on the complexities of love and marriage in a society that often denied black women the opportunity to fully realize their potential.
The Writing Style
Langston Hughes’ writing style in “Simple Takes a Wife” is both humorous and poignant. He uses a conversational tone and dialect to bring his characters to life, making them relatable and endearing to readers. Hughes also employs vivid descriptions and imagery to paint a picture of the setting and the characters’ emotions. The use of humor in the story adds a lightheartedness to the serious themes of love and marriage, making it an enjoyable read. Overall, Hughes’ writing style in “Simple Takes a Wife” is a perfect blend of humor and heart, making it a timeless classic.
The Reception of the Story
The reception of Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” has been mixed, with some critics praising its humor and insight into the complexities of love and marriage, while others have criticized it for perpetuating stereotypes about African American relationships. Despite these differing opinions, the story remains a beloved classic in African American literature, and continues to be read and studied by scholars and readers alike. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Hughes’ skill as a storyteller, and his ability to capture the joys and struggles of everyday life with wit and compassion.
The Legacy of Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes was a prolific writer and poet who left an indelible mark on American literature. His works, which often explored the experiences of African Americans, continue to resonate with readers today. One of his most beloved characters is Jesse B. Semple, also known as Simple. Simple is a witty and insightful everyman who navigates the complexities of life with humor and grace. In “Simple Takes a Wife,” Hughes explores the joys and challenges of marriage through the eyes of his beloved character. The story is both humorous and poignant, offering a glimpse into the complexities of love and relationships. Through Simple’s experiences, Hughes reminds us of the importance of laughter, compassion, and understanding in our own lives. His legacy continues to inspire and uplift readers around the world, and his contributions to American literature will be celebrated for generations to come.
The Significance of “Simple Takes a Wife”
“Simple Takes a Wife” is a significant work in Langston Hughes’ literary canon. Not only does it showcase his unique style of blending humor and social commentary, but it also addresses the complexities of love and marriage in the African American community during the mid-20th century. The character of Simple, who is often seen as a representation of the common man, provides a relatable lens through which readers can examine the challenges and joys of relationships. Additionally, the story’s focus on the importance of communication and compromise in a successful marriage remains relevant today. Overall, “Simple Takes a Wife” is a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
The Contrast with Other Works by Langston Hughes
In contrast to some of Hughes’ other works, such as “The Weary Blues” and “Harlem,” which focus on the struggles and hardships of African Americans, “Simple Takes a Wife” takes a lighter approach to the subject matter. While still addressing issues of race and class, the story is infused with humor and wit, making it a refreshing departure from Hughes’ more serious works. Additionally, the character of Simple, who is a recurring figure in Hughes’ writing, is portrayed in a more positive light in this story, showcasing his charm and wit rather than his flaws and shortcomings. Overall, “Simple Takes a Wife” is a delightful and heartwarming addition to Hughes’ body of work.
The Adaptations of the Story
One of the most interesting aspects of Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” is the various adaptations it has undergone over the years. The story was originally published in 1953 as a short story in the Chicago Defender, and it has since been adapted into a play, a television movie, and even a musical. Each adaptation has brought its own unique interpretation to the story, but all have managed to capture the humor and poignancy of Hughes’ original work. One of the most notable adaptations is the 1964 television movie, which starred Oscar-winning actor Sidney Poitier as Simple and Ruby Dee as his wife. The movie was praised for its faithful adaptation of the story and for its powerful performances. Another notable adaptation is the 1985 musical, which featured music by composer Charles Strouse and lyrics by Langston Hughes himself. The musical was a critical success and helped to introduce a new generation to Hughes’ work. Overall, the various adaptations of “Simple Takes a Wife” serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of Hughes’ writing and the universal themes of love and marriage that he explores in his work.
The Influence on Popular Culture
Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” has had a significant influence on popular culture since its publication in 1953. The character of Simple, a witty and charming Harlem resident, has become an iconic figure in African American literature and has been referenced in various forms of media, including music, film, and television. The book’s themes of love, marriage, and the struggles of everyday life have resonated with audiences for decades, making it a timeless classic. Simple’s humor and wisdom have inspired countless artists and writers, and his legacy continues to live on in popular culture today.
The Lessons Learned from the Story
The lessons learned from Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” are numerous and valuable. One of the most important lessons is the importance of communication in a relationship. Simple and his wife, Joyce, struggle to communicate effectively, leading to misunderstandings and arguments. However, when they finally sit down and have an honest conversation, they are able to work through their issues and strengthen their bond. Another lesson is the importance of compromise and understanding in a marriage. Simple and Joyce come from very different backgrounds and have different expectations for their relationship, but they are able to find common ground and make compromises to make their marriage work. Overall, “Simple Takes a Wife” is a humorous and poignant reminder of the challenges and rewards of love and marriage.
The Relevance Today
Langston Hughes’ “Simple Takes a Wife” may have been written in the 1950s, but its relevance today is undeniable. The themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations are still prevalent in our modern world. The story’s portrayal of the challenges faced by a newlywed couple trying to navigate their way through societal norms and expectations is still relatable today. Additionally, the humor and wit in Hughes’ writing make the story a timeless classic that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Overall, “Simple Takes a Wife” is a poignant and humorous tale that continues to resonate with readers today.