Plot

By plot, we understand the sequence of events that compose a short story. Traditionally, plots are structured into: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action and resolution. You must take into account that not all stories have the same structure; some are completely devoid of plot, while others lack certain elements.

The short story “Thank You, M’am” by Langston Hughes can also be structured into scenes. The first scene takes place outside, on the street. The second scene takes place in Mrs. Luella’s house, while the third scene – and the shortest – takes place outside again, when Roger leaves Mrs. Luella’s house.

“Thank You, M’am” is a short story which has a rather simple plot. A teenage boy tries to steal the purse of a black woman at night, on the street. The woman refuses to call the police and takes the boy home, feeds him and teaches him something about right and wrong.

Exposition. The beginning of the story helps the reader get to know the main characters. They are Mrs. Luella, a strong black woman, and Roger, a teenage boy. We are also presented with the setting and the time of the action.

She was a large woman with a large purse that ha...