Question

In Part F of the Lesson Activity from Perspectives in American Literature, you responded to

this prompt:
The poems by Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes that you read in this lesson
speak about the changing American identity. Revisit the poems, and then write
a three-paragraph response that describes the American identity from your
perspective. How is your American identity different and similar to the ones
described by Whitman and Hughes? Cite evidence from both poems to support
your response.
Take this 3-paragraph response and turn it into a 5 paragraph essay, with evidence
from both poems quoted to support your ideas.

Answer 1

The American identity is a constantly evolving concept that is shaped by the experiences and perspectives of its people. From my perspective, the American identity is defined by a sense of freedom, diversity, and opportunity. This is reflected in the poems of Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes, who both wrote about the changing American identity during their respective times.

In "I Hear America Singing," Whitman celebrates the diverse voices and experiences of the American people. He writes, "Each singing what belongs to him or her and to none else" (line 6). This passage highlights the idea that the American identity is composed of many different voices and perspectives. This diversity is reflected in my own American identity, as I am a part of a community that is made up of people from all over the world, each with their own unique experiences and perspectives.

In contrast, Hughes' "Let America Be America Again" speaks to the struggles and injustices faced by marginalized communities in America. He writes, "Out of the rack and ruin of our current state, The corruption and lack of integrity, and lies" (lines 5-6). This passage highlights the idea that the American identity is not always inclusive and that there is still work to be done to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to experience the freedom and opportunity that is central to the American identity. This resonates with my own experiences, as I have seen firsthand how certain communities continue to face systemic injustices and discrimination.

However, both Whitman and Hughes share a common theme of hope and the possibility of a better future for America. Whitman writes, "And I know I am great, And I know this orbit of mine cannot be swept by a carpenter's compass" (lines 22-23). This passage highlights the idea that America can reach its full potential and be an ideal democracy. Similarly, Hughes also writes "O, let America be America again— The land that never has been yet— And yet must be—the land where every man is free" (lines 33-35) which is a call for a better future for America where everyone is truly equal. This idea of hope for a better future is something that is also reflected in my own American identity, as I believe that through continued efforts to address injustices and strive for equality, America can become the inclusive, equitable society that it aspires to be.

In conclusion, the American identity is a constantly evolving concept that is shaped by the experiences and perspectives of its people. Whitman and Hughes, through their poems, have portrayed a diverse and complex American identity that is defined by freedom, diversity, and opportunity. The American identity described by both poets is similar in its celebration of diversity, but different in its outlook towards the future and the ongoing struggles for marginalized communities. Both poems have helped me understand my own American identity as one that is inclusive, optimistic and with hope for a better future.

Answer 2

The American identity is a fluid and constantly evolving concept, shaped by the experiences and perspectives of individuals from all walks of life. The poems by Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes that I read in this lesson offer unique and powerful perspectives on this complex topic.

In his poem "I Hear America Singing," Whitman presents a vision of an America where all people are united in their shared experiences and love for their country. He writes, "Each singing what belongs to him or her and to none else" (line 3). This line speaks to the idea that the American identity is made up of the diverse experiences and perspectives of all its citizens. Whitman's America is a melting pot, where everyone's contributions are valued and celebrated.

In contrast, Hughes' poem "Let America Be America Again" presents a more critical perspective on the American identity. He writes, "O, let America be America again— / The land that never has been yet— / And yet must be—the land where every man is free" (lines 1-3). This passage speaks to the idea that the American identity has not yet been fully realized, and that there is still work to be done to ensure that all Americans are truly free and equal. Hughes' America is one where the struggles and experiences of marginalized groups are acknowledged and addressed.

In my own perspective, my American identity is a mix of the ideals presented by both Whitman and Hughes. I believe that the American identity is formed through the diverse experiences and perspectives of all its citizens. However, I also acknowledge that there are still issues of inequality and injustice that need to be addressed in order for all Americans to truly be free and equal. As Whitman writes, "The American bards shall be marked for generosity and affection and for encouraging competitors" (line 12). In this line, Whitman acknowledges that there are multiple perspectives and voices that make up the American identity. I believe that it is important to listen and learn from different perspectives, and to use that understanding to build a more inclusive and just society.

In Hughes' poem "Let America Be America Again," he writes, "O, let America be America again— / The land that never has been yet— / And yet must be—the land where every man is free" (lines 1-3). This passage speaks to the idea that the American identity has not yet been fully realized, and that there is still work to be done to ensure that all Americans are truly free and equal. This idea is further reinforced in lines 8-10: "O, yes, I say it plain, / America never was America to me, / And yet I swear this oath— / America will be!" Hughes is saying that America has not yet lived up to its ideals of freedom and equality, but he still has hope for the future.

In my own perspective, my American identity is closely aligned with Hughes' vision of an America that is constantly working to live up to its ideals. I believe that it is important to acknowledge and address the inequalities and injustices that still exist in our society. As Hughes writes, "It never was America to me" (line 9), I understand that the American identity is not yet fully realized and that there is still work to be done to ensure that all Americans have equal opportunities and rights. But like Hughes, I also have hope for the future, and I believe that by coming together and working towards a common goal, we can create a more inclusive and just society.