How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #4
No bargainers' bargains by day—no brokers or speculators—would they continue?
Would the talkers be talking? would the singer attempt to sing?
Would the lawyer rise in the court to state his case before the judge? (11-13)
As we've seen time and time again, the presence of this military band – representative of the war – has changed the complexion of the nation. These lines solidify our impression of America as a place defined by its hard workers: after all, our speaker chooses the disruption of their work as the best way to convey the powerful effects of the war. If these Americans were always looking for an excuse not to work, then it sure wouldn't mean much when they were forced to stop.