In an attempt to expand the horizons of learning, Mrs. Dean’s U.S. History II class recently read and responded to Walt Whitman’s classic poem “I Hear America Singing”. The class also read Langston Hughes’ response to Whitman’s ode, entitled “I, Too”. After reading and analyzing both verses, the class wrote their own poetic response using today’s influence and culture:

We sing too,

We sing out loud,

We sing for freedom,

Freedom was our fight,

Freedom is what we fought for,

Here we live in a country that was once split,

And together forever we shall be in happy harmony,

Freedom isn’t free, fight for what you believe,

Freedom is something that you cannot see,

Stand for what you believe,

Fight for your rights.

The entire U.S. History II class helped and had meaningful input in the writing of the poem. A deeper meaning emerges from the elegy that emphasizes our resilience as a nation. Their response delighted Mrs. Dean, who couldn’t have been any more proud of their efforts.