This is the first article in the series focusing on poetry and patriotism.
Historically, poets have expressed their thoughts, ideas, and feelings about patriotism. Poems such as “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and “Old Glory” present vivid images of how Americans rally to unify and defend the ideals of freedom and peace. To read more great perspectives on American patriotic poetry, check out www.poetrysociety.org/joseph.html.
Each generation of writers produces a unique style of written expression. The poets deftly hone the craft. Today, Americans hoist the torch of liberty with determination, communion, and enthusiasm. As a result, the poetry of this century, albeit the moment, is not any different!
Shortly following the tragic event of the destruction of the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers on September 11, 2001 in New York City, people joined together to face the shocking aftermath of injury, loss, and grief. Immediately, fire and police workers were joined by hundreds of others to expedite the rescue mission that ignited the spirit of American patriotism, which flared hotter as not only the city dwellers, but the nation and the rest of the world rose to meet the tragedy. Soon amidst the debris of cement, steel, glass, and rock, the American flag brandished bright colors of red, white and blue.
Soon too, American poets wrote of old glory:
American Flag
by Liz
Billows in the breeze
Majestic, patriotic
It's our nation's flag
Our red, white, and blue
The spirit of our country
It stays forever
The imagery reveals an inherent belief that the American flag curls and waves infinitely no matter what may happen, including tragic incidents that are meant to destroy the unified spirit of the American people.
The Haiku structure reflects a powerful message that America's spirit reigns undaunted; indeed, that even the faintest voice is heard. This brief image captures a moment in history: a moment when once again the stars and stripes boldly unfurl!
To read more about the young poet who wrote this poem on September 12, check out the following web site: http://teenwriting.about.com/library/bla...
Another poet who wrote of America's daunting embrace of freedom was Emma Lazarus. She authored "The New Colossus" which is about the Statue of Liberty. The poem rallies the shout of freedom. Check out the second article that will discuss this poem in this series on Poets and Patriotism.
Share with us other American patriotic poems you know!
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