Langston Hughes's writing was deeply influenced by his experiences of discrimination and racism. Growing up in a racially divided America, he encountered prejudice firsthand, which ignited a passion for social justice and equality. His travels and interactions with African American culture enriched his understanding and inspired his literary voice. Hughes utilized poetry to express the struggles and resilience of his community, capturing their hopes and dreams. The Jazz Age and the Harlem Renaissance further influenced his work, as he sought to celebrate black identity and culture, making his writing a powerful tool for activism.