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Identifying Repetition

"The carpenter singing his, as he measures his plank or beam,
The mason singing his, as he makes ready for work, or leaves off work;
The boatman singing what belongs to him in his boat - the deckhand singing on the steamboat deck;
The shoemaker singing as he sits on his bench - the hatter singing as he stands."
—"I Hear America Singing," Walt Whitman

In what three ways does Whitman use repetition in this passage from his poem?

A. By repeating rhymed words
B. By repeating "singing"
C. By including the workers' first names
D. By starting each line with a type of worker
E. By ending each line with what each person does while singing

Answer :

Final answer:

Walt Whitman employs repetition in his poem through the consistent use of the word "singing," starting each line with a type of worker, and describing their actions while singing. These methods enhance the poem's rhythm and celebrate the contributions of diverse workers. Ultimately, Whitman conveys a sense of unity in the American labor force.


Explanation:

Identifying Repetition in Whitman's Poem


Walt Whitman uses repetition in several effective ways in the excerpt from his poem "I Hear America Singing." Below are three notable methods:



  1. By repeating "singing": In the lines, Whitman consistently includes the word "singing" to emphasize the joy and pride of the workers as they engage in their respective tasks. This repetition creates a rhythmic quality that celebrates the harmony of labor.

  2. By starting each line with a type of worker: The poem begins each line with different professions such as "carpenter," "mason," and "boatman." This structure highlights the diversity of American workers and acknowledges their unique contributions while maintaining a uniformity that unifies them.

  3. By ending each line with what each person does while singing: Each line concludes with actions that correspond to the specific worker, for example, "measures his plank or beam" or "makes ready for work." This technique reinforces the connection between the act of singing and their labor, illustrating how their work is intertwined with their identity.


Through these techniques, Whitman effectively captures the spirit of American individuality and community among workers.


Learn more about Repetition in Poetry here:

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