This poem, titled "I Hear America Singing," was written by Walt Whitman. It depicts the diverse voices and songs of the American people, symbolizing the different occupations and activities they engage in.
The poem begins with the speaker stating that he hears the singing of America, the various melodies that he listens to. These songs are sung by mechanics, each singing in a cheerful and powerful manner, displaying their craftsmanship and skill.
The carpenter is depicted singing as he measures his plank or beam, reflecting his dedication to his work. The mason also sings while preparing for work or taking a break from work, indicating a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment in their tasks.
The boatman has his own song, belonging solely to him and his boat. The deckhand on a steamboat also sings on the deck, perhaps to maintain a sense of rhythm and joy amidst the work.
The shoemaker sings as he sits on his bench, while the hatter sings while standing. The wood-cutter and the ploughboy each have their own songs, sung during their morning routines, at noon breaks, or during sundown.
The poem continues by highlighting the beautiful singing of mothers, young wives at work, as well as young girls involved in sewing or washing. Each person sings their own unique song, representing their individuality and personal contributions to society.
The poem concludes with a description of a group of young fellows, who sing with open mouths during the night, portraying their strength, camaraderie, and joyous melodies.
Overall, Whitman's poem celebrates the diversity of voices and occupations in America, emphasizing the importance of each individual's contribution and the power of their collective singing.
Text 1: “I Hear America Singing” by Walt Whitman
1 I hear America singing, the varied carols I hear,
Those of mechanics, each one singing his as it should be blithe
and strong,
The carpenter singing his as he measures his plank or beam,
5 The mason singing his as he makes ready for work, or leaves off
work,
The boatman singing what belongs to him in his boat, the
deckhand singing on the steamboat deck,
The shoemaker singing as he sits on his bench, the hatter singing
10 as he stands,
The wood-cutter’s song, the ploughboy’s on his way in the
morning, or at noon intermission or at sundown,
The delicious singing of the mother, or of the young wife at
work, or of the girl sewing or washing,
15 Each singing what belongs to him or her and to none else,
The day what belongs to the day—at night the party of young
fellows, robust, friendly,
Singing with open mouths their strong melodious songs.
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