Thank You, Ma Am, By Langston Hughes

The short story, “Thank You, Ma’am,” by Langston Hughes is about a boy with an unknown past who tries to steal Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones’ purse. She takes the boy to her house and he slowly teaches him lessons without scaring him away. The woman wants to show the boy that stealing is awful and can lead to some awful consequences. The author is displaying that the lady is kind but wants to teach the young boy and discipline him. This statement is the main theme of the story, “Thank You, Ma’am.” Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones states to the boy,“...I would teach you right from wrong…” Her comment shows that she has a liking for the unknown boy in a different way you would think. She sees him as a kid who has potential. She believes if the boy is taught how to do things that are right instead of ones that aren’t, he will have a more successful life and be less guilty. This demonstrates that she not only cares about him, but his future. She wants to help him in any way she can and teaching him is only one. For a majority of the short story, it is unknown why Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones is teaching him this strategic lessons in life. Nearing the ending of the story she exclaims, “I have done things too, which I would …show more content…
The woman is very genuine with the boy and teaches him in that manner. Her disciplinary lectures give the boy many important things to know and how to stay out of trouble. People may not agree that discipline is the central theme, but all throughout the story the woman is constantly teaching him lessons. The woman is willing to give the boy some tips and lessons so the kid won’t get in even more trouble. Being willing to help and teach someone about lessons and consequences is a very good trait to have and use. Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones is a woman who does not want any more trouble for the