The Undefeated

1. What is the tone of this poem? How does Alexander’s tone and approach to African American history feel similar to the ways in which you have learned about the topic in school? How does it feel different? Why do you think Alexander uses this tone and approach?

2. Many people like to think that we should be “color blind” and ignore race completely. Based on this poem, how do you think Alexander would respond to that? Explain.

3. What do you think is the significance of some of the images in the poem, especially the line that has no accompanying image and the lines in “the unspeakable” parts? Do you think this poem would work without the images?