In a brief response, describe two ways that Langston Hughes's "I, Too" is similar to or different from Walt Whitman's "I Hear America Singing." Cite specific evidence from both poems to support your analysis.

Similarities:

In both poems, the authors talk about patriotism, and about what it means to them to be an American. Both authors demonstrate pride in what America is, what the country represents to its people, and viceversa. Moreover, both authors us the symbolism of singing in order to support this idea. In both poems, the authors celebrate the underdogs. They are not concerned by the grand, sophisticated people. Instead, they talk about the common folks. In the case of Whitman, he celebrates the lives of the working class. In the case of Hughes, he celebrates the lives of African Americans.

Differences:

Whitman celebrates positive feelings with language that is positive throughout the poem. He talks about patriotism as something that is happy and is meant to be celebrated. On the other hand, Hughes presents a more mixed approach. While he celebrates patriotism and what it means to be American, he also shows the negative side of these ideas, which is one of rejection and discrimination.

The repetition emphasizes hope and a unified vision for America.