Topic > Hope and Faith in "America" ​​by Claude McKay and "I Was in a Hurry" by Dunya Mikhail

IndexIntroductionHope and Faith in "America" ​​by Claude McKay Hope and Faith in "I was in a Hurry" ” by Dunya Mikhail ConclusionReferencesIntroductionTheme, often thought of as the underlying message or meaning of a story, is a fundamental element in literary analysis. Themes can be easily spotted in some stories, while in others they may require deeper exploration. Additionally, a single story can encompass multiple themes, each offering unique insights into the narrative. In the poems "America" ​​by Claude McKay and "I was in a Hurry" by Dunya Mikhail a shared theme emerges: the resilience of hope and faith in the midst of adversity. Both poets reflect on their experiences as immigrants and offer glimpses into their respective pasts. This essay will delve into the theme of unshakable hope and faith in the face of the challenges described in these two poems. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Hope and Faith in “America” by Claude McKay The poem “America” by Claude McKay begins with an overt tone of frustration and disillusionment with the United States. He expresses his initial discontent with the country's treatment of African Americans, using powerful language to convey his discontent. The poem reflects the dichotomy of America, showcasing its virtues and vices. McKay's use of figurative language, including personification by referring to "America" ​​as "she," enhances the poem's emotional impact. Through this figurative language, he communicates his evolving attitude towards the nation. Born in Jamaica, McKay experienced racial prejudice and discrimination from an early age. His struggles with racism in Jamaica led him to move within the country. Later, he developed an interest in communism and traveled to Russia before returning to New York. His return marked a conversion to Catholicism, reflecting the complex journey of his life. "America" ​​serves as a reflection of his life experiences and his determination to never lose hope or faith, no matter what challenges he faced. In the poem, McKay undergoes a transformation in his perspective on America. Initially, he uses spiteful language, such as describing America as "sinking the tiger's tooth down his throat." However, as the poem progresses, McKay's tone changes to one of hope and reconciliation. He acknowledges the country's flaws but also recognizes its potential for positive change. His closing lines, “I will confess to loving this cultured hell that tests my youth,” reflect his newfound appreciation for the complexities of America and his enduring faith in the possibility of improvement. Hope and faith in "I was in a hurry" by Dunya MikhailDunya Mikhail's poem "I was in a hurry" was written a year after his departure from Iraq. He left his homeland in the aftermath of the first Gulf War due to government persecution. His writing, particularly his poetry, had been labeled "subversive" by Saddam Hussein's regime. To protect his work from government scrutiny, Mikhail had to resort to disguises in his writings. Her escape eventually brought her to the United States, where she embarked on a new life, including marriage, motherhood, and American citizenship. Although she never physically returned to Iraq, she revisits her homeland through her poetry. “I Was in a Hurry” poignantly illustrates how Mikhail felt as if he had lost his country. The poem encapsulates his., 42(4), 719-730.