In which of the following poems does the speaker express both love and conflict regarding their homeland?

The poem “America” by Claude McKay vividly illustrates the speaker's dual feelings of love and conflict regarding their homeland. In this piece, McKay employs passionate language to convey a profound affection for America while simultaneously grappling with the harsh realities of racism and injustice. The speaker acknowledges the beauty and promise of the country but also expresses frustration and pain stemming from societal oppression. This tension creates a rich emotional landscape where love for the homeland coexists with feelings of betrayal and resentment over the struggles faced by marginalized individuals.

In contrast, the other poems do not encapsulate this specific blend of affection and conflict regarding a homeland. “The Road Not Taken” relies more on personal choice and reflection rather than a direct commentary on feelings about a country. “Still I Rise” focuses on resilience and empowerment but does not centralize the concept of homeland in the same way. “The Waste Land” explores themes of disillusionment and fragmentation but does not explicitly address a love-hate relationship with a specific homeland. Thus, McKay’s “America” stands out as the poem that encapsulates these complex emotions.