End Term

ES 358 E: American Writing in English

2. Explain what the ‘American dream’ signifies by referring to ideas from the poem. Comment on
the form structure and allusive quality of the poem.

Ans: Before answering this question let’s first demonstrate the meaning of given poem…
The poet explores contrasting possibilities, such as living peacefully or turning to violence, seeking
roots or embracing a multiplicity of identities, and ponders the tension between various cultural
narratives. The poem delves into the complex tapestry of human existence, touching upon themes of
identity, purpose, societal constructs, and the interconnectedness of diverse experiences. It begins
by questioning the motivations that drive individuals in their quest to find a place in the world. The
mention of Powhatan native land in the poem signifies the historical and cultural roots of the
indigenous peoples who inhabited the land that eventually became part of the United States.
The poem simultaneously explores the meaning of race, color, and one’s essence while diving into
the individual’s present being. This self-examination causes one to wonder about the
interdependence of all people as well as the significance of perseverance, divine will, and the
regrettable acceptance of other people’s suffering.
As the verses progress, the poem contemplates the pursuit of the “American dream” and the ability
to empathize with the experiences of others, particularly those facing death in various parts of the
world. The mention of different regions like the US, Mongolia, Korea, Ukraine, and Gaza underscores
the global nature of human struggles and the shared humanity that transcends geographical
boundaries.
At its core, this poem is a narrative that delves into the complexities of humanity. It invites the reader
to contemplate the complexities of identity, the complexities of society, and the universalities of the
human condition. It is a lyrical exploration of the deep questions that have been asked throughout
history, and it invites the reader to ponder their place in the complex web of life.

*What is American dream ?

:- The American dream is a big idea that the poet talks about. It’s like a goal that people in the United
States want. It’s more like a dream that means different things to different people. The poet asks if
the dream is about living and succeeding or if it involves conflicts and hurting others. It’s a questioning
of whether the dream is tied to being pure in a certain way or if it allows for a mix of identities,
whether you live in a fancy place or a not-so-nice one. The poem talks about roots, like where you
come from and the history of the land. It wonders if chasing the American dream means forgetting or
remembering your roots. There’s a hint at the history of native lands and how it relates to the dream.
So, the American dream isn’t just about the future; it’s also connected to the past.
In the poem, the 'American Dream' is not presented as a monolithic and universally attainable ideal
but rather as a contested and challenging pursuit. The reference to the dream prompts contemplation
on the disparities in its realization among different racial and ethnic groups. The poet questions
whether the dream is equally accessible to all, especially considering the struggles faced by black
mothers and children. This suggests an acknowledgment of systemic inequalities and challenges that
hinder the universal realization of the American Dream.
‘American dream’ to a global context, emphasizing the shared struggles faced by individuals
worldwide. From a broader perspective, the ‘American dream’ traditionally embodies the idea of
upward social mobility, success, and fulfillment achieved through hard work and perseverance.
By bringing attention to Powhatan native land, the poem suggests a need for a nuanced
understanding of the American dream that encompasses the experiences and legacies of various
cultural groups, including those who were present long before the concept of the American dream
emerged.

*Form Structure of the Poem:*

The way the poem is set up, it’s a bunch of questions. This makes it feel like the poet is talking to you,
asking you to think about these big ideas. The words flow from one line to the next without stopping
a lot. it's like a connected conversation about life and dreams.
The poem is divided into separate stanzas that contain clusters of thoughts and questions, which help
to organize the poet’s thoughts and prevent the poem from becoming chaotic. The rhythm of the
stanzas guides the reader through the different layers of thought that are included in the verses. The
poem’s structure also allows for a thematic progression, beginning with questions about man’s will
and purpose, and gradually expanding to include identity, history, and the universal human
experience. The lack of rhyme scheme adds to the poem’s conversational, introspective quality. The
poet’s thoughts unfold in a way that simulates the process of asking questions and seeking
understanding, allowing for a more authentic, immediate response to the deep questions asked by
the poet.

*The allusive quality of the poem*

1. Edgar Allan Poe and the Gothic Tradition: The poem alludes to Edgar Allan Poe, a prominent
American writer known for his contributions to the Gothic literary tradition. Lines such as “And is it
hence the ‘white man’s burden’ to write a ‘funeral in the brain’?” reference Poe’s poem “The
Conqueror Worm.” By invoking Poe, the poet connects with a literary tradition that often explores
darker aspects of human nature, existential themes, and the complexities of the human psyche. This
allusion introduces a layer of introspection and existential questioning, suggesting that grappling with
the burdens of society is akin to a funeral within one’s own mind.

2. ‘White Man’s Burden’: The poem references the concept of the “white man’s burden,” a phrase
associated with the idea that European colonizers had a moral responsibility to civilize and uplift other
societies. The allusion prompts readers to consider the historical implications of colonization and the
complex interplay of power, responsibility, and cultural exchange. By incorporating this reference, the
poet challenges the traditional narrative associated with the American dream, questioning whether
the pursuit of a dream involves a burden and, if so, for whom.

3. Powhatan Native Land: The mention of Powhatan native land adds a historical and cultural
dimension to the poem. It alludes to the Powhatan Confederacy, the Native American tribes in the
Virginia region during the time of English colonization. This reference prompts readers to reflect on
the original inhabitants of the land and the impact of colonization on indigenous cultures. The allusion
to Powhatan native land complicates the notion of the American dream, suggesting that the dream
is situated on a landscape with a rich and diverse history that predates the aspirations of later arrivals.

4. The American Dream: The overarching allusion in the poem is to the American dream itself. The
poet raises questions about the nature of this dream, its inclusivity, and the ethical considerations
associated with its pursuit. By questioning whether the American dream involves living harmoniously
or resorting to conflict, embracing one’s roots or seeking diverse identities, the poem challenges a
singular, idealized vision of the American dream. The allusive quality here lies in the exploration of
different facets of the American dream, inviting readers to critically examine their understanding of
this widely held concept.

5. Global References: The poem extends its reach beyond the borders of the United States by
mentioning various locations such as Mongolia, Korea, Ukraine, and Gaza. These references create a
global perspective, emphasizing that the struggles and questions posed in the poem are not confined
to a specific region. The allusion to diverse geopolitical contexts broadens the thematic scope,
underlining the universality of human experiences and challenges. It prompts readers to consider the
interconnectedness of individuals worldwide and the shared nature of certain existential questions.

6. Rhetorical Questions: While not explicit references, the poem’s use of rhetorical questions
contributes to its allusive quality. The questions posed throughout the poem prompt readers to reflect
on their own beliefs, values, and understanding of complex issues. This literary device invites readers
to engage actively with the text, creating a dynamic and participatory reading experience. The
questions serve as indirect allusions to broader philosophical inquiries, encouraging readers to
explore the complexities of life, identity, and societal responsibilities.

Conclusion:
In conclusion The poet strategically incorporates allusions to literary figures like Edgar Allan Poe,
historical concepts like the “white man’s burden,” and global locations to create a nuanced
exploration of the American dream and the human experience. These allusions serve as entry points
for readers to connect the poem with broader cultural, historical, and literary contexts, fostering a
more profound understanding of the themes and questions raised by the poet. So, to wrap it up, the
poem is all about thinking deeply. It asks big questions about the American dream, not seeing it as
just one thing. It wants you to think about where you come from, what you want in life, and if
everyone gets the same chances. It’s like a chat about dreams, history, and what really matters in life.
Name – Priti Kumari
Reg no – 210810063727
CKS, BA 3rd year