use the poems "the lost love" by Fenton Johnson, 'if we must die" by Claude mckay, "joy in the woods" by Claude mckay and write A. Choose three poems by a poet/s from the collection below and explain in 100-250 words what you find interesting about them, state which poems you are referring to and the author/s. This is your opinion and so it can just be a personal feeling about the use of language and the words chosen for a poem.

Answer 1

I find the themes and language in the poems "The Lost Love" by Fenton Johnson, "If We Must Die" by Claude McKay, and "Joy in the Woods" by Claude McKay particularly compelling.

In "The Lost Love," Johnson employs lyrical language that evokes deep emotional resonance, exploring themes of longing and absence. The rich imagery he uses to describe lost love conveys not only the pain of separation but also the beauty of what once was, leaving the reader with a profound sense of nostalgia.

On the other hand, McKay’s "If We Must Die" powerfully expresses defiance in the face of oppression. The poem’s commanding tone and rhythmic structure elevate its urgency, and the evocative language frames the struggle not just as a fight for survival but as a call to dignity and honor. The repetition of the phrase "If we must die" emphasizes both the gravity of the situation and the strength of the human spirit.

Lastly, McKay’s "Joy in the Woods" presents a vivid celebration of nature, juxtaposing the beauty of the natural world against life's struggles. The imagery he employs is vibrant and refreshing, creating a space of solace and triumph amid hardship. Collectively, these works exhibit a mastery of language that captures the complexity of emotions, whether it be longing, defiance, or joy, making them resonant with readers.