Literary Influences:
* W.E.B. Du Bois: Hughes was deeply impacted by Du Bois's concept of "double consciousness," exploring the experience of being both Black and American.
* Paul Laurence Dunbar: Hughes admired Dunbar's use of vernacular language and his portrayal of Black life in his poetry.
* Claude McKay: McKay's use of bold imagery and exploration of racial themes resonated with Hughes's own writing.
* Alain Locke: Locke's "New Negro" movement, which championed Black artistic expression, provided a crucial context for Hughes's work.
* Carl Sandburg: Sandburg's free verse poetry, rooted in everyday language and American experiences, influenced Hughes's style.
* Walt Whitman: Whitman's celebration of the common man and his democratic ideals resonated with Hughes's own vision of America.
Musical Influences:
* Blues musicians: Hughes's poetry often incorporated blues rhythms and imagery, reflecting the music's influence on his writing.
* Jazz musicians: Jazz's improvisational nature and its blend of different musical styles resonated with Hughes's own artistic approach.
Other Influences:
* African art and culture: Hughes drew inspiration from African art, folklore, and mythology, incorporating them into his poetry and prose.
* African American folk traditions: Hughes celebrated Black oral traditions, including storytelling, blues, and spirituals, incorporating their themes and rhythms into his work.
It's important to note that Hughes's artistic influences were complex and interwoven. He combined these diverse inspirations to create a unique voice that celebrated Black culture, explored racial issues, and reflected the complexities of the American experience.