Claude McKay (1889-1948)
Things to Consider:
- Use of Dialect and Standard English
- Use of Sonnet Form
- Colonialism and National Identity
- Racial Identity
Discussion Questions:
1402:
- According to the editors, what was
McKay the first major poet to do?
"Old England" (1912)
- Describe the relationship among language, syntax, rhythm,
and rhyme in this poem.
- Describe the speaker's conception of
England.
- Explain the speaker's
conception of England.
1404-5:
- Why does the speaker wish to go to
England?
- To which country does the speaker refer as "my own native
shore" (28)? Explain.
"If We Must Die" (1919) 
1405:
- What, according to the editors, was the inspiration for
this poem?
- Which poem form is exemplified
here? Be as specific as possible. Explain.
- Why is this form particularly appropriate for the topic
(i.e., What is the relationship between form and content)?
- Explain the final three lines.
Other Discussion Questions:
1402:
- Why do the editors specifically say that "If We Must Die"
has often been quoted "without attribution" (1402)?
"Old England"
1404-5:
- What does the speaker wish to see in England?
- What is significant about these choices?
- Explain lines 13-16.
"If We Must Die"
- Who are "We"? Who are the dogs? Explain.