Charlton McIlwain - 'The Ballad of the Landlord' by Langston Hughes

The poem 'The Ballad of the Landlord' by Langston Hughes highlights the struggles of a tenant dealing with a negligent landlord. The tenant's complaints about housing issues are met with threats of eviction. The situation escalates, leading to police involvement and the tenant's arrest, reflecting themes of racial injustice and media portrayal.

What issues does the tenant bring up to the landlord?

• The tenant complains about a leaking roof and broken steps.

• The tenant is upset about noisy neighbors.

• The tenant wants a new paint job for the house.

• The tenant is asking for a rent reduction.

How does the tenant respond to the landlord's demand for $10?

• The tenant offers to pay after the house is fixed.

• The tenant ignores the demand completely.

• The tenant refuses to pay and demands repairs first.

• The tenant agrees to pay immediately.

What actions does the landlord threaten to take against the tenant?

• The landlord wants to increase the rent.

• The landlord threatens to call the police.

• The landlord decides to sell the property.

• The landlord plans to evict the tenant and cut off heat.

What is the tenant's reaction to the landlord's threats?

• The tenant apologizes and promises to pay.

• The tenant decides to move out.

• The tenant threatens to take legal action.

• The tenant expresses anger and threatens violence.

What is the outcome of the tenant's confrontation with the landlord?

• The tenant and landlord reach a mutual agreement.

• The tenant wins a court case against the landlord.

• The tenant is arrested and sentenced to jail.

• The tenant is evicted peacefully.