Table of ContentsIntroductionHope and Faith in “America” by Claude McKayHope and Faith in “I Was in a Hurry” by Dunya Mikhail ConclusionReferencesIntroductionTheme, often considered the underlying message or meaning of a story, is a fundamental element of literary analysis. Themes can be easily discerned in some stories, while in others they may require further exploration. Additionally, a single story can encompass multiple themes, each offering a unique insight into the narrative. In the poems “America” by Claude McKay and “I was in a Hurry” by Dunya Mikhail, a common theme emerges: the resilience of hope and faith in the midst of adversity. Both poets reflect on their experiences as immigrants and offer insight into their respective pasts. This essay will delve deeper into the theme of unwavering hope and faith in the face of the challenges described in these two poems. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get Original Essay Hope and Faith in “America” by Claude McKayClaude McKay's poem “America” begins with an overt tone of frustration and disillusionment with the United States. He expresses his initial dissatisfaction with the country's treatment of African Americans, using powerful language to express his displeasure. The poem reflects the dichotomy of America, highlighting its virtues and vices. McKay's use of figurative language, including personification when referring to "America" ​​as "her", heightens the emotional impact of the poem. Through this figurative language, he communicates his evolving attitude toward the nation. Born in Jamaica, McKay faced racial prejudice and discrimination from a young age. His struggles against racism in Jamaica led him to move within the country. Subsequently, he developed an interest in communism and traveled to Russia before returning to New York. His return marks a conversion to Catholicism, a reflection of the complex journey of his life. “America” is a reflection of his life experiences and his determination to never lose hope or faith, no matter what challenges he faced. In the poem, McKay undergoes a transformation in his perspective on America. At first he uses malicious language, such as describing America as "sinking its tiger's tooth down its throat." However, as the poem progresses, McKay's tone shifts to one of hope and reconciliation. He recognizes the country's flaws but also recognizes its potential for positive change. His final lines, "I confess that I love this cultural hell which tests my youth," reflect his new appreciation of the complexities of America and his unwavering faith in the possibility of improvement. Hope and Faith in “I Was in a Hurry” by Dunya Mikhail Mikhail’s poem “I was in a Hurry” was written a year after he left Iraq. She left her native country in the aftermath of the first Gulf War due to government persecution. His writings, particularly his poetry, had been described as "subversive" by Saddam Hussein's regime. To protect his work from government control, Mikhail had to resort to disguises in his writing. Her escape eventually led her to the United States, where she embarked on a new life, including marriage, motherhood, and American citizenship. Although she has never physically returned to Iraq, she revisits her native country through her poetry. “I Was in a Hurry” poignantly illustrates how Mikhail felt like he had lost his country. The poem summarizes his feeling of displacement and., 42(4), 719-730.