Author of groundbreaking works like "Native Son" and "Black Boy," Richard Wright is a towering figure in the history of American literature. As a result of his bold portraits of racial inequity and societal injustices, he is now recognized as a legendary figure in the literary history of the United States.

Wright's early life was marred by poverty, hardship, and racial prejudice due to his birth on a plantation in Roxie, Mississippi in 1908. These early events had a significant impact on his outlook and writing, allowing him to portray the essence of the African American experience so vividly.

Wright's awakening as a reader began in the Memphis public libraries, where he defied the 'whites only' policy by borrowing books from a friendly librarian. His drive to write and give voice to the unspoken anguish of his people was fueled by his self-education, which exposed him to a variety of voices and opinions.

Wright's breakthrough work, "Native Son," was released in 1940 and became an instant bestseller. Bigger Thomas, the protagonist of the story, is a young black guy who becomes a symbol of the systemic racism and socioeconomic injustice that exists in the United States. Wright was thrust into the literary spotlight as a result of the widespread acclaim for this potent story.

Wright was a consistent and unwavering critic of racism throughout his entire professional life. Though divisive, his writings presented an unvarnished portrait of American life. They helped pave the way for future authors of color by delving deeply into the psyches of oppressed people and exploring topics like identity, independence, and survival.

The legacy and effect of Richard Wright on American literature are indisputable. His ambitious narrative style, topics, and characters paved the way for other authors to push the envelope and reimagine what was possible in American literature.