Text 1: “I Hear America Singing” by Walt Whitman
1 I hear America singing, the varied carols I hear,
Those of mechanics, each one singing his as it should be blithe
and strong,
The carpenter singing his as he measures his plank or beam,
5 The mason singing his as he makes ready for work, or leaves off
work,
The boatman singing what belongs to him in his boat, the
deckhand singing on the steamboat deck,
The shoemaker singing as he sits on his bench, the hatter singing
10 as he stands,
The wood-cutter’s song, the ploughboy’s on his way in the
morning, or at noon intermission or at sundown,
The delicious singing of the mother, or of the young wife at
work, or of the girl sewing or washing,
15 Each singing what belongs to him or her and to none else,
The day what belongs to the day—at night the party of young
fellows, robust, friendly,
Singing with open mouths their strong melodious songs.
This poem, titled "I Hear America Singing," was written by Walt Whitman. It depicts the diverse voices and songs of the American people, symbolizing the different occupations and activities they engage in.
The poem begins with the speaker stating that he hears the singing of America, the various melodies that he listens to. These songs are sung by mechanics, each singing in a cheerful and powerful manner, displaying their craftsmanship and skill.
The carpenter is depicted singing as he measures his plank or beam, reflecting his dedication to his work. The mason also sings while preparing for work or taking a break from work, indicating a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment in their tasks.
The boatman has his own song, belonging solely to him and his boat. The deckhand on a steamboat also sings on the deck, perhaps to maintain a sense of rhythm and joy amidst the work.
The shoemaker sings as he sits on his bench, while the hatter sings while standing. The wood-cutter and the ploughboy each have their own songs, sung during their morning routines, at noon breaks, or during sundown.
The poem continues by highlighting the beautiful singing of mothers, young wives at work, as well as young girls involved in sewing or washing. Each person sings their own unique song, representing their individuality and personal contributions to society.
The poem concludes with a description of a group of young fellows, who sing with open mouths during the night, portraying their strength, camaraderie, and joyous melodies.
Overall, Whitman's poem celebrates the diversity of voices and occupations in America, emphasizing the importance of each individual's contribution and the power of their collective singing.
Text 1 is a poem titled "I Hear America Singing" by Walt Whitman. The poem describes the different people and professions in America, and how each of them sings their own unique songs.
To understand the meaning of the poem, we can analyze its structure and content. Here's a breakdown of the poem:
- Lines 1-2: The speaker hears the singing of America, the various songs that represent different professions and workers.
- Lines 3-4: The mechanics, such as carpenters and builders, sing joyfully and confidently as they work.
- Lines 5-6: The masons, who are preparing for work or taking a break, also have their own songs.
- Lines 7-8: The boatman and deckhand have songs that belong to their occupations on the water.
- Lines 9-10: Even the shoemaker and hatter have their own songs as they perform their respective tasks.
- Lines 11-12: The wood-cutter and ploughboy (someone who operates a plow) have songs that accompany their work throughout the day.
- Lines 13-14: The poem mentions the pleasant singing of a mother, a young wife, and a girl engaged in domestic tasks.
- Lines 15-16: Each person sings their own song, which belongs to them and no one else.
- Lines 17-18: During the night, a group of young men sing loudly with vigor and camaraderie.
The poem highlights the diverse voices and occupations across America, emphasizing the individuality and uniqueness of each person's work. It celebrates the hard work and joy that emanates from the different jobs performed throughout the day, ending with a vibrant image of young men singing together.
Overall, "I Hear America Singing" is a poem that portrays the spirit and vitality of America through the songs of its workers.
The poem "I Hear America Singing" by Walt Whitman celebrates the diverse voices and work ethic of American workers. It portrays a nation united through its various occupations and their individual songs. Each line of the poem highlights a different occupation and the unique song associated with it. The poem emphasizes the individuality and pride of each worker as they fulfill their respective roles in society.
1. The first line sets the tone for the poem, with the speaker stating that they can hear America singing.
2. The following lines describe the different workers and their songs. The mechanics, or skilled laborers, are depicted as singing their songs happily and confidently.
3. The carpenter sings as he measures his plank or beam, suggesting that even in the mundane tasks of his trade, he finds joy and purpose.
4. The mason is also described as singing, whether he is getting ready for work or taking a break from it.
5. The boatman and deckhand are mentioned to depict workers associated with water transportation. They sing songs that are unique to their trade.
6. The shoemaker sings while sitting at his bench, and the hatter sings while standing, suggesting that workers from different fields find solace and joy in their work.
7. The wood-cutter and ploughboy are mentioned to represent workers associated with farming and physical labor. They have their songs, whether it's in the morning, during a break at noon, or at sundown.
8. The poem also acknowledges the singing of women in different roles, such as the mother, the young wife at work, or the girl sewing or washing. Their songs represent their contributions to society.
9. Each worker sings what belongs to them and nobody else. This emphasizes their individuality and the importance of their specific contributions.
10. The poem concludes by highlighting the unity of the workers, describing a party of young fellows singing with open mouths, expressing a sense of camaraderie and friendship.
In summary, "I Hear America Singing" celebrates the diversity and individuality of workers in America, recognizing their contributions and the unique songs that resonate with their respective occupations. The poem emphasizes the unity and spirit of the American workforce.