How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Line)
Quote #1
How many dawns, chill from his rippling rest
The seagull's wings shall dip and pivot him,
Shedding white rings of tumult, building high
Over the chained bay waters Liberty— (lines 1-4)
The only thing that could make this scene a more inspiring vision of America's greatest city would be if the seagull were a bald eagle holding an American flag in its claws as fireworks went off in the background... You can see the whole of New York City in your mind, with the Statue of Liberty standing proud, even though these things are not mentioned specifically.
Quote #2
I think of cinemas, panoramic sleights
With multitudes bent toward some flashing scene (lines 9-10)
After the grandeur of the opening image, this depiction of crowds of people creepily "bent" toward a flashing movie screen is a stark change of direction. The word "sleights" suggests that the American entertainment experience is built around trickery and even deception. But at least the popcorn's good….
Quote #3
Some motion ever unspent in thy stride,--
Implicitly thy freedom staying thee! (lines 15-16)
A paradox: the bridge is a symbol of freedom and movement even though it doesn't go anywhere. It seems to be mid-step between two shores, always active and alive. The vibrancy of American commerce and engineering prowess is evident in these lines.