11 Feb “I Hear America Singing” (1860)

“I Hear America Singing” (1860)

1. How does Walt Whitman portray the diverse occupations and activities of Americans in “I Hear America Singing”?

2. What is the significance of the individuals mentioned in the poem singing their own songs?

3. How does Whitman capture the essence of American life and work through the imagery of singing?

4. In what ways does the poem celebrate the everyday workers and their roles in society?

5. What themes or messages can be derived from the poem “I Hear America Singing” in relation to American identity and culture?

I Hear America Singing | The Poetry Foundation

“America” (1888)

1. What qualities does Whitman attribute to America in this poem?

2. How does Whitman portray America as a “seated Mother” in the poem?

3. What do you think Whitman means by describing America as “enduring, capable, rich”?

4. How does Whitman connect America with concepts such as Freedom, Law, and Love in the poem?

5. In what way does Whitman’s language and imagery convey a sense of pride and strength in America?

6. How does Whitman’s description of America potentially contradict the American populations’ reality? Be specific and offer support. Additional historical research about the time period may be required for this answer.

America | The Poetry Foundation