When writing a literary analysis, focus on different unique elements of the text you are analyzing and theorize why the author would have used those elements. Hughes wrote "Thank You M'am" as an allegory representing urban, Black Americans and the values important to this culture. The colloquial dialect adds to the realistic, tone of his story and also connects it to traditional African folk tales. "Thank You M'am" is an allegory conveying the African American belief that self-respect is a valuable personal trait worthy of preserving despite whatever difficulties one faces in life. This lesson is one that Mrs. Luella Bates Washington shares by example with the boy who attempted to steal from her. By taking him home, feeding him, talking to him about life choices and ultimately providing him with the money he wanted for some shoes, she upholds her self-respect and shows him an example of integrity and caring.
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