Ballad of Gin Mary
The narrative centers on a woman named Mary, who finds herself in a courtroom facing judgment for her alcoholism. The judge, a recurring figure in her life, expresses concern over her condition, indicating that her struggles with alcohol have led her to this moment. The judge's decision to sentence her to eighteen months in jail is framed as a means to help her overcome her addiction. Throughout the poem, Mary reflects on her situation with a mix of resignation and longing for her drink, gin. The repetition of her pleas for mercy highlights her desperation and the emotional turmoil she experiences as she contemplates the loss of her freedom and her beloved gin. The courtroom serves as a symbol of societal judgment and the harsh realities faced by those grappling with addiction. The work explores themes of addiction, societal judgment, and the cyclical nature of dependency. Mary's internal conflict is palpable as she grapples with the consequences of her choices while simultaneously expressing a deep attachment to her vice. The judge's stern demeanor contrasts with Mary's vulnerability, emphasizing the disconnect between societal expectations and individual struggles. Ultimately, the piece serves as a poignant commentary on the challenges of overcoming addiction and the often punitive nature of societal responses to those who suffer from it. The emotional weight of Mary's situation resonates throughout the poem, leaving readers to reflect on the complexities of addiction and the human experience.
By Langston Hughes · First published 1940 · Genre: Poetry, Blues, Social Commentary · 183 words
First lines
Carried me to de court, Judge was settin' there.
Looked all around me, Didn't have a friend nowhere.
Judge Pierce he says, Mary.
Old Judge says, Mary Jane, Ever time I mounts this bench I sees yo' face again.
What this Textopian page supports
Ballad of Gin Mary is listed on Textopian as a poem by Langston Hughes, dated 1940 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Langston Hughes
- Date: 1940 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Blues, Social Commentary, African American Literature, Narrative
- Length: 183 words
- Structure: 1 section, 17 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, making it primarily a poem.
- Blues — The themes of hardship, alcohol, and emotional struggle reflect the characteristics of blues music.
- Social Commentary — The poem addresses issues of addiction, justice, and societal judgment, providing a critique of social conditions.
- African American Literature — The work is representative of African American experiences and cultural expressions.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Jazz Age · Urban Life · Social Commentary · Racial Tensions · Prohibition Era · Speakeasies · Gin · Alcoholism · Addiction · Mortality