Light and Shade

Light and shade function as symbols of hope and despair, change and stagnation. At the poem’s start, the poet asks, “When day comes we ask ourselves, / Where can we find light in this never-ending shade?” (2-3). Much like the incoming presidential administration, “day” represents a new beginning. But in the context of a divided, pandemic-torn U.S., this new beginning is marred by hopelessness, “shade.” Gorman implores her audience to look for hope despite its seeming absence. She returns to this message at the poem’s conclusion, saying that there is “always light” for those who look for it. She chooses to dwell on hope rather than despair.

The Hill

The hill in the poem’s title as well as the poem itself symbolizes the act of “striving” (25) for a better union. It is a challenge that everyone must work to overcome. Gorman...