In “The Tropics in New York,” McKay contrasts the vibrant memory of the tropical homeland with the stark reality of urban life in New York City. This sonnet explores themes of cultural displacement and the longing for a lost homeland.McKay juxtaposes the lush, exotic tropics with the harsh, industrial landscape of New York, highlighting the stark contrast between natural beauty and urban reality. Right in the beginning of the poem it starts with, “Bananas ripe and green, and ginger-root, Cocoa in pods and alligator pears, And tangerines and mangoes and grape fruit, Fit for the highest prize at parish fairs,” (lns 1-4). These lines evoke the vivid imagery of tropical fruits, contrasting with the urban environment of New York City.
In “America” McKay critiques the racial inequality and hypocrisy prevalent in American society, highlighting the disparity between the country’s ideals and the reality faced by marginalized communities. “Although she feeds me bread of bitterness, And sinks into my throat her tiger’s tooth,” (lns 1-2) This line metaphorically captures the bitterness and violence experienced by African Americans despite the promises of equality and opportunity in America. The sonnet further expresses a profound sense of alienation and disillusionment with the American dream, portraying a longing for acceptance and equality.
Both “The Tropics in New York” and “America” explore themes of displacement, disillusionment, and yearning. While McKay’s tropical sonnet contrasts the natural abundance of the homeland with the urban struggles in New York, “America” delves into the social and racial tensions within the American society. By analyzing these sonnets side by side, students can deepen their understanding of McKay’s thematic concerns and poetic techniques. The juxtaposition of imagery and themes across these poems illuminates the interconnected struggles and aspirations within the African American community during a pivotal period in American history.
-Alondra Garcia
Introduction to Poetry 
Apr 20, 2024 @ 01:28:42
Hello Alondra,
I really liked your post. I especially liked the second paragraph on how you compared the line to being a sign of violence or racial discrimination that African Americans go through. I think you did a good job in bringing the imagery similarities, but I think you could have played a bit more with the idea of racial discrimination and the imagery of all this vibrant fruit and what that can symbolize as well. Even though you did talk about the illusions that are placed within America and its urban environment, are a sign you did that I would have liked you poking more at the idea.
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