In both the text “Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller” and the poem “Negro Hero,” the author and speaker share a similar admiration for Doris Miller’s actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor. However, they express their points of view in different ways, which impacts the way the text and poem are told.
In the text "Doris 'Dorie' Miller," the author uses a more factual and descriptive approach to convey their admiration for Miller's actions. They provide details about how he bravely manned a machine gun and shot down enemy planes during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The author's focus is mainly on recounting the events and presenting Miller as a hero through their factual storytelling.
On the other hand, in the poem "Negro Hero," the speaker expresses their admiration for Miller through a more emotional and poetic lens. The speaker uses vivid imagery and metaphors to depict Miller's actions and their significance. They describe Miller as a "battering ram" and a "song of Avenging Death," emphasizing his courage, strength, and the impact he had during the attack. The poem's lyrical and figurative language creates a more evocative and powerful portrayal of Miller's heroism.
The different approaches utilized by the author and speaker result in distinct ways of telling the story of Doris Miller. The text provides a straightforward and informative account, while the poem offers a more artistic and imaginative interpretation. The text may appeal more to those seeking historical accuracy and a factual representation, while the poem may resonate with those looking for a deeper emotional connection and a poetic celebration of Miller's actions.