1. Metaphor: The poem's central metaphor is the "stairway," which represents the difficult and challenging path of life. This metaphor is extended throughout the poem, with the mother describing the stairs as "crystal stair," "tacks" and "splinters," "boards torn up," and "places with no carpet." These vivid images evoke the hardships and obstacles that the mother has faced in her life, but also suggest her determination to keep climbing.
2. Simile: The mother uses a simile to emphasize the difficulty of her journey: "Life for me ain't been no crystal stair." This simile contrasts the expected ease of a "crystal stair" with the harsh realities of her life.
3. Imagery: Hughes uses strong imagery to create a vivid picture of the mother's struggles. "Tacks," "splinters," "boards torn up," and "places with no carpet" are all tangible images that allow the reader to experience the physical pain and discomfort of the mother's journey.
4. Personification: The poem personifies the "stairs" as if they have their own will and intention, further emphasizing the challenges the mother has faced. The "stairs" are "turned" and "got" things, giving them a sense of agency that reflects the obstacles she has overcome.
5. Repetition: The repeated phrases "Don't you set down on the steps," "Don't you fall now," and "I'se still climbin'" emphasize the mother's enduring message of perseverance and resilience. This repetition also creates a sense of urgency and intensity, reinforcing the importance of the mother's advice.
6. Free Verse: The poem is written in free verse, which allows Hughes to create a natural and conversational tone. This style makes the mother's voice feel authentic and relatable, further strengthening the emotional impact of her message.
7. Dialogue: The poem is written as a direct address from a mother to her son, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy. This dialogue format allows the mother to speak directly to her son, conveying her message with personal intensity and emotional weight.
By combining these poetic devices, Hughes paints a powerful and moving portrait of the mother's life and the lessons she has learned. Her journey, though difficult, is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and her message of hope and resilience echoes throughout the poem.