You have read “Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller” and “Negro Hero,” a text and a poem about Doris Miller’s actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Using details from both the text and the poem, write an essay that analyzes the points of view of the author of “Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller” and the speaker in “Negro Hero.” In your essay, be sure to consider how the similarities and differences between the points of view of the author and the speaker impact the way the text and poem are told.
Write a well-organized, text-dependent response. Be sure to save time to edit and review your work for complete sentences, spelling, punctuation, and appropriate language.
The points of view of the author of “Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller” and the speaker in “Negro Hero” in relation to Doris Miller’s actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor are both similar and different, resulting in distinct styles of storytelling. The author of the text presents a factual and objective account of Miller’s heroism, highlighting his bravery and the impact it had on the African American community. On the other hand, the speaker in the poem expresses a more emotional and personal point of view, emphasizing the pride and admiration felt for Miller within the African American community.
The author of “Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller” presents a straightforward perspective on Doris Miller’s actions at Pearl Harbor. The text describes Miller’s duties as a cook and his sudden transition to a combat role during the attack. The author effectively conveys Miller’s valour through factual details such as his ability to lift and fire heavy machinery guns despite having no formal training. Additionally, the text explores the historical context of racial inequality in the military and the impact of Miller’s actions on breaking down those barriers. Overall, the author’s point of view is one of homage and respect for Doris Miller’s bravery.
In contrast, the speaker in “Negro Hero” takes a more subjective and emotional approach in depicting Miller’s heroism. The poem celebrates Miller’s extraordinary actions and the pride that it brings to the African American community. The speaker’s language is vivid and evocative, using imagery and metaphors to express the depth of their admiration for Miller. For example, the speaker describes Miller as a “mighty clash of thunder”, signifying his immense strength and impact. The speaker also explicitly acknowledges the racial prejudices faced by African Americans at the time, emphasizing the significance of Miller’s accomplishments in that context. The speaker’s point of view is thus characterized by a strong emotional connection to Miller’s heroism.
The similarities and differences in the points of view of the author and the speaker impact the way the text and poem are told. The author’s objective and factual perspective in the text allows for a comprehensive understanding of Miller’s actions and their historical significance. This approach provides readers with a clear account of events and the broader impact of Miller’s bravery. On the other hand, the speaker’s emotional point of view in the poem creates a more personal and intimate connection between the reader and Miller’s heroism. The use of powerful imagery and emotions evokes a sense of pride and admiration, capturing the significance of Miller’s actions on a deeper level.
In conclusion, the author of “Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller” and the speaker in “Negro Hero” provide distinct points of view on Doris Miller’s actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor. While the author presents a factual and objective account, highlighting the historical context and impact of Miller’s bravery, the speaker expresses a more personal and emotional perspective, emphasizing the admiration and pride felt within the African American community. These differing points of view result in distinct storytelling styles that contribute to a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of Doris Miller’s heroism.