Quotation: “Somehow we weathered and witnessed/a nation that isn’t broken/but simply unfinished” (Gorman 13-15).
Comment: This line really stuck with me as I read through the poem and I found myself come back to it after reading. This perspective is something I strive to have myself and would recommend to others. Today, there is a clear line drawn in the sand when it comes to American politics and debate to what “side” is correct. This has caused a disparaging amount of turmoil in day to day life due to the pressures and tension around topics such as human rights. It makes it hard for many Americans to feel hopeful for the future of the nation due to the turmoil. These stanzas offer a different way of viewing things, one that inspires hope in people. I find most often than not people have become very distressed or given up hope for the state of the nation due to recent events, such as the overturn of Roe v. Wade. If we can look at the nation as Gorman sees it, then maybe things would improve on a faster scale. It takes individuals who are passionate for change and resilient through hardship in order to make change happen.
Question: What would happen if more Americans adapted this mindset? What does “unfinished” entail? How do we inspire individuals to make change happen, similar to what Gorman is attempting in her poem?
