Question

How does McKay develop the theme of "America"? What is his conclusion of the sonnet?

Answer 1

McKay develops the theme of "America" by showing how the narrator's relationship with his country is personal rather than abstract. McKay creates tension by showing how even though America feeds, or nourishes the narrator, it is with "bread of bitterness." The narrator admits that even though America steals his "breath of life," he still loves it. This contradiction is inherent to the theme: that what harms the narrator about his relationship with America is also what makes him stronger. Yet the narrator's conclusion is that the seemingly mighty future of America is in danger of disappearing "like priceless treasures sinking in the sand."