The word choice in Langston Hughes' poem "Mother to Son" is simple and straightforward, using plain language to convey a powerful message. The poem features vernacular language, metaphorical imagery, and colloquial expressions to create a sense of intimacy and connection between the speaker (the mother) and the listener (her son). The use of words like "crystal stair," "tacks," "splinters," and "bare" evoke a strong visual and tactile imagery, emphasizing the struggles and hardships the mother has faced in her life. Overall, the word choice in the poem effectively conveys themes of perseverance, resilience, and the importance of never giving up.
