The Great America? #1863

The Great America Echoes of Power and Paradox Is this the great America, Where Bible and Cross Share ground with cannon and cannonball, Rifle, pistol, dynamites Under the feet of Mr. President? It mounts up with wings like an eagle, Proclaiming modern theocracy for the world. President McKinley, once adored, Greeted with floral mounds, Spoke from St. James Park, His voice echoing across the courthouse. In New York, his life was taken, A statue now stands, A silent witness to his words, To his dreams for the land. 25th president, McKinley, Victorious in '96 and 1900, Defeating Bryan's cries for silver. He led the GOP to dominance, Shaping foreign policies anew. Imperialism in the Philippines, High tariffs, economic battles, He was the architect of change, Molding the modern presidency. But as we gaze at St. James Park, And the statue standing still, We ask, is this the great America? Where ideals and iron clash, And the eagle's wings bear heavy loads, In a land of paradox and pride. Is this the great America, Where Bible and Cross Share ground with cannon and cannonball, Rifle, pistol, dynamites Under the feet of Mr. President? It mounts up with wings like an eagle, Proclaiming modern theocracy for the world. President McKinley, once adored, Greeted with floral mounds, Spoke from St. James Park, His voice echoing across the courthouse. In New York, his life was taken, A statue now stands, A silent witness to his words, To his dreams for the land. 25th president, McKinley, Victorious in '96 and 1900, Defeating Bryan's cries for silver. He led the GOP to dominance, Shaping foreign policies anew. Imperialism in the Philippines, High tariffs, economic battles, He was the architect of change, Molding the modern presidency. But as we gaze at St. James Park, And the statue standing still, We ask, is this the great America? Where ideals and iron clash, And the eagle's wings bear heavy loads, In a land of paradox and pride. -Steven G. Lee (June 21, 2024)