An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose

An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose

Langston Hughes, a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, was a poet, novelist, and playwright who used his art to explore the African American experience and challenge societal norms. Throughout his career, Hughes demonstrated a commitment to artistic freedom and a willingness to push boundaries in order to create work that was both authentic and impactful.

The quote, “An artist must be free to choose what he does, certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do what he might choose,” encapsulates Hughes’ approach to his craft. Hughes believed that artists should have the freedom to express themselves in whatever way they see fit, without being constrained by external expectations or limitations. He understood the importance of creative autonomy and the need for artists to follow their own instincts and inspirations.

At the same time, Hughes recognized that true artistic expression often requires courage and a willingness to take risks. He understood that creating meaningful art sometimes means stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and confronting difficult or controversial subjects. Hughes was not afraid to address issues of race, class, and identity in his work, even when doing so was considered taboo or dangerous.

In his poetry, Hughes explored themes of racial injustice, poverty, and the struggles of everyday people. He used his art to give voice to the marginalized and to challenge the status quo. By fearlessly addressing these topics, Hughes was able to create work that was not only aesthetically powerful but also socially relevant and politically charged.