Next To of Course God America I

Next To of Course God America I

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Next To of Course God America I

“Next To of Course God America I” is a poem composed by Edward EstlinCummings in 1926. It uses a combination of figurative language to present the shifting attitude of the persona towards America. The use of phrases such as next to of course god America indicates how passionate he is about his beloved nation. It means that the satisfaction he derives from his national implication can only be compared to the feelings regarding the supernatural god. The selection of words and the use of stylistic devices like alliteration, assonance, metaphor, personification and allusions make the poem rhythmic with shifting tones and moods. Hence, it portrays the persona to be having a positive attitude towards the nation. It, thus, becomes relevant in influencing the perception of citizens to love their country and do all that it takes to protect its sovereignty.

Praises including thy sons acclaim your glorious name; why talk of beauty what could be more beautiful than these heroic; and the land of the pilgrims clearly indicate the theme of patriotism (Cummings, 1926). The author is so happy about America that he says all the good things about it. The words show that he is a real patriot who is proud to be associated with such a beautiful and successful country. In the third line, he says can you see by the dawn’s early my (Cummings, 1926). This is of course an extract from the National Anthem of the USA. Besides, his love for his government compels him to defend its decision of deploying soldiers to fight during wars. He encourages everyone to be loyal to the country just like the energetic enduring young soldiers described by the author as wonderful and heroic patriots. Despite giving such an insightful theme, I would like to fault the poet for being so ambiguous in his statements. Evidently, it becomes so difficult to understand the poem due to the perceived conflict between the persona and the reporter who constantly give opposing views. They do not speak with the same voice. This conflict makes the poem a bit vague.

Reference

Cummings, E. E. (1926). Next to of course god America I. Retrieved from

http://www.cs.berkeley.edu/~richie/poetry/html/aupoem121.html