Booker T. and W.E.B. : Analyzing Voices and Tone

what is each man arguing for in the first two stanzas?
(2–3 sentences — one for each voice.)

Quote a phrase from the poem that shows Booker T.’s belief in “practical work.”
Explain in one sentence why that word choice matters.

True or False:
Booker T.’s diction is more formal than W.E.B.’s.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

(False: his diction is simple and conversational.)

The poet repeats “It seems to me” and “I don’t agree.”

What effect does this repetition create?

The poet repeats “It seems to me” and “I don’t agree.”

Which tone best fits each phrase — calm / practical / intellectual / confident? (choose one tone per speaker)

Which pair of words best describes the contrast in diction?

• A. Plain vs. scholarly

• B. Angry vs. joyful

• C. Formal vs. sarcastic

• D. Abstract vs. literal

Which poetic elements stand out most when spoken — rhyme, rhythm, or repetition?
Explain why that element helps the message stand out. (2–3 sentences.)

The idiom “missed the boat” means _________ .
How does this phrase add to Booker T.’s tone? (1 sentence.)

Both men believe in success for African Americans but define it differently.
Write a short paragraph (5–6 sentences) comparing how their diction and tone reveal those differences.
Use at least one quote from each speaker.

If Dudley Randall wrote a modern version of this poem today, who might the two speakers be, and what topic would they debate? (2–3 sentences.)