Walt Whitman -- America
Centre of equal daughters, equal sons,
All, all alike endear'd, grown, ungrown, young or old,
Strong, ample, fair, enduring, capable, rich,
Perennial with the Earth, with Freedom, Law and Love,
A grand, sane, towering, seated Mother,
Chair'd in the adamant of Time.
Can someone help me with the meaning of this poem? I'm supposed to do a summary/analysis & I'm having a hard time understanding it. Thanks!!
"America" by Walt Whitman is a poem that celebrates the diversity and unity of the American people. Whitman envisions America as a nurturing, powerful, and enduring figure, referred to as the "Mother." The poem emphasizes the idea of equality, describing both daughters and sons as being equally valued and loved, regardless of their age or stage of life.
Whitman uses a list of positive attributes to describe the American people, such as being strong, ample, fair, enduring, capable, and rich. These qualities reflect the potential and strength of the American nation.
The poem also highlights the connection between America and essential concepts like Earth, Freedom, Law, and Love. This suggests that America is deeply rooted in these fundamental principles and that they form the foundation of the nation's strength and longevity.
The image of America being "seated in the adamant of Time" symbolizes the country's permanence. This means that America is firmly established and will endure over time, remaining true to its principles.
In summary, Whitman's "America" expresses a deep appreciation for the diversity of the American people and their inherent worth, while also emphasizing the enduring strength and foundations of the nation.
What is the poem about? Consider what the poem is describing. Consider the title.
What image is being painted with the descriptions? Why are certain words capitalized? What do certain words mean, and why were they specifically chosen? What does the poem reflect in regards to Whitman?