Read the following poem "America" by Claude McKay before you choose your answer. "Although she feeds me bread of bitterness, And
sinks into my throat her tiger's tooth, Stealing my breath of life, I will confess I love this cultured hell that tests my youth. Her vigor flows like tides into my blood, Giving me strength erect against her hate, Her bigness sweeps my being like a flood. Yet, as a rebel fronts a king in state, I stand within her walls with not a shred Of terror, malice, not a word of jeer. Darkly I gaze into the days ahead, And see her might and granite wonders there, Beneath the touch of Time's unerring hand, Like priceless treasures sinking in the sand." Which of the following best describes the poem as a whole? (5 points) A humorous satire of American culture A poetic expression describing the endurance of African-Americans A poignant description of the strengths and faults of America A philosophical rant blasting ignorance in America
C - A poignant description of the strengths and faults of America.
Explanation:
The author uses the words and phrases 'her vigor', 'might and granite wonders', 'pricess treasures' to describe the strengths of America and 'bread of bitterness', 'cultured hell', 'darkly I gaze a head' to describe the faults.
