Gormans The Hill We Climb

Introduction

The Hill We Climb, a poem by Amanda Gorman, is a touching description of the United States on the eve of President Bidens inauguration in 2021. This essay reflects the poem and the lessons learned from it through the framework provided in the guide How to Read a Poem.

Review and summary

Gorman combines the imagery of light and darkness, hope and terror throughout the poem to symbolize the two contradicting sides of America, those who wish to split and those who want to unite. Her picture of the country is still on its way to becoming what its language already says it is, rather than one that has been defeated or failed. She wants to give those listening hope that a better day is coming and better times are on the way. The poet pleads that we, American citizens and anybody listening to her read, be bold enough to see and be the light/hope that is coming.

On January 20th, 2021, this composition was performed at President Joe Bidens inauguration as the 46th President of the United States. It was seen by millions on television and a select few in person due to the COVID-19 pandemics restrictions. The poem encompasses the countrys broader history, including...

This includes events in the United States throughout the previous four years and the weeks leading up to the inauguration. This contains the murder of George Floyd,...…committed citizens the country needs to create real change. In this poem, black American history is a great example of delayed, painful progress and a source of hope and inspiration.

Conclusion

The Hill We Climb is a stirring call to action that explores themes of optimism, solidarity, healing, and resilience. The poem honors the United States as a country with the grit to deal with its all-too-real issues rather than a perfect union. The lesson learned from the poem is that progress does not come overnight: it is a lengthy and sometimes painful climb up the hill of justice that requires patience and humility. Change is difficult for the speaker of this poem, but it is always possible: committed Americans can seeand be! the light of a better…