These lines resonated with me the most from all of the poems. As an American descended from pilrgims and long standing american family, I've always been curious about what it would have been like to be a first generation American. Becoming an American, portrayed here by the "becoming a different person" is strange to think about. Would I really be that different had I been raised somewhere else? More importantly, how would it feel to fear myself ebbing away?
it was an awful thought:if you went to Americayou becamea different person-Paul-Helge Haugen, "Home From America"
The tone of the entire poem is mournful, as the reader seems to be afraid of losing themself as they have witnessed such a drastic change within their relatives. Haugen refers to old potographs, and their change in dress and demeanor, and attributes it all to their new residence in America.
While I can't relate, I found the poem to be beautiful, yet sad piece of work.
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