Crafting an essay on Langston Hughes' works requires navigating his intricate prose, poetry, and essays to explore themes like racial inequality, identity, and African American culture. It demands a meticulous examination of Hughes' language choices, literary devices, and nuanced expressions, as well as comprehending and synthesizing his ideas across various literary forms. Additionally, the essay must capture Hughes' contributions to American literature while reflecting on the broader implications of his work in historical context and engaging with extensive existing scholarship through a unique perspective.