Description
the following rules apply:
You may not use any outside sources. You may only use the materials I give you, and you must cite them properly in MLA format.
Essays must have a title, follow proper paragraphing rules, and demonstrate mastery of spelling and grammar.
First and second person pronouns (“I” or “you”) are not allowed.
Essays must contain a clear, argumentative thesis statement that controls the entire essay.
Essays must be between 650-900 words.
On January 20, 2021, Amanda Gorman became the youngest inaugural poet in US history. Read her poem, “The Hill We Climb” and view her reading here: CNBC Archives
Write an analysis of Gorman’s poem which considers the following ideas. (This is not an outline for your poem, but a suggestion of how to approach your analysis):
What is the central argument/theme of the poem?
What is the poem’s tone – optimistic, pessimistic, or neutral? What lines prove this?
What is the actual hill we climb? In what ways is it a metaphorical hill, and in what ways is it literal?
The poem includes a reference to Micah 4:4. What purpose does this reference serve? How is it appropriate or inappropriate to the audience of January 20 and to a broader audience as well?
What musical influences, including, but not limited to rap and hip-hop impact Gorman’s style? How do they affect the way you hear and see the poem?
Discuss Gorman’s use of anaphora. How does it call to mind other famous speeches? How is it effective or ineffective?
What does the poem present as some of the greatest obstacles to the vision it portrays? How does it suggest we overcome these obstacles?
Does the poem have applicability beyond the United States? Why or why not?
Look at some of the word play, internal rhyme, and even puns within the poem. What function do they serve?
How does the poem suggest Americans and perhaps others can “be” the light referenced both at the beginning and end?