Sestina

Erin Conley
Mrs. Jernigan
AP Enlglish Lit
29 March 2011
Sestina
Florence Cassen Mayers utilizes the complex form of a Sestina through repetition of numbers to show the reader the important and memorable aspects of American culture. The poem connects many sayings unique to the United States to reveal the hope in her nation.
Mayers begins the poem with “one nation, indivisible,” and I feel that this is symbolic to her feeling that our country is united and will fight through whatever turn history takes to stay true to the founding beliefs of America. She then proceeds with other numbers describing different traditions and ideas originated in the United States. She reminded the reader of the different aspects of typical America life using, “three strikes you're out,” “two-tone Chevy,” “five-star general,” and a “hole in one.” As I read, it was so interesting to see all the sayings that I know so well and never consider to be out of the ordinary, but people from other parts of the world could have no clue what they mean. I think that was part of Mayers motive. I think she wanted to show the reader how blessed they are in America and how much they take for granted. Most of her examples were symbolic of the prosperity and “American Dream” aspect that everyone is searching for.
Mayers does not leave out some hard parts of America's past, but she does not dwell on them, showing our ability to move on from the past. She is showing that despite hardships, our country will fight to keep the history it has created together and prospering for future generations. It is also symbolic that she ends back with “one-horse town,” which just reiterates the unity of our country, that we started as one and will stay that way throughout history.