The short story of Langston Hughes "Thank You Ma'am" is based on the external conflict between an elderly woman, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones

Justify the title of the short story "Thank You Ma'am"

The short story of Langston Hughes "Thank You Ma'am" is based on the external conflict between an elderly woman, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones and a young snatcher boy Roger. The boy wanted to snatch the purse of Mrs. Jones but lost his balance and fell down and was caught red handed. Instead of handing him over to the police, the lady took him to her house and tended him affectionately. The boy was overwhelmed by the sympathy of the lady. He showed his gratitude when the lady fed him and gave him money to buy his long cherished swede shoes. He wanted to express his gratitude but he could only utter the words "Thank You". So the phrase "Thank You Ma'am" adequately expresses the overwhelming feeling of a transformed boy. Hence the title is apt.