Final answer:
In Carl Sandburg's poem 'Chicago,' critics critique the city's flaws while the speaker robustly defends its vitality and importance. The poem captures the duality of Chicago—acknowledging its smoke-filled industrial landscape while embracing its industrious spirit and the character of its hardworking inhabitants.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the famous poem Chicago by Carl Sandburg, lines 6–10 are not explicitly provided in the query, but generally speaking, 'they' in the context of the poem often refers to critics who disparage the city, pointing out its flaws and the challenges it faces, such as corruption and crime. The speaker, who can be interpreted as the collective voice of Chicago's citizens or Sandburg himself, replies defiantly, embracing the city's raw energy and strength. The speaker acknowledges Chicago's imperfections but also highlights its vigor, productivity, and significance as a critical hub of industry.
Widely known as the "City of Broad Shoulders," thanks to Sandburg's poem, Chicago is depicted with a combination of admiration and candid acknowledgment of its grittier aspects. Sandburg's response encapsulates a feeling of pride and acceptance, with an underlying note of affection and solidarity with the working-class citizens who contribute to the city's pulse.
The poem's vivid imagery paints a picture of the urban landscape, steeped in industry, contributing to both its appeal and its challenges, as reflected in the earlier lines describing the smoke from industrial chimneys and the labor of the city's inhabitants. The poet's message conveys a deeper understanding and acceptance of the complex character of Chicago, which encompasses both its virtues and vices.