If We Must Die by Claude McKay. An analysis of his rhyme and rhythm scheme, alliteration and repetition, and animal imagery.

<Tab/>In the poem "If We Must Die" by Claude McKay, the author cries out to his audience -to his men at arms- to fight back against those that oppress them and are intent to kill them. Though not as rich in poetic symbolism as the poems by Emily Dickinson and George Herbert, McKay's poem evokes a stronger and more inspiring emotional reaction. He achieves this through his rhyme and rhythm …

…squeezed in. Poetically it gives more meaning to the poem and makes it sound better. It also gives McKay more credibility as an artist. So while McKay's reasons for following rhyme and rhythm are a bit questionable, his oratory skills are nonetheless to be applauded. "If We Must Die" is an inspiring piece of work that truly causes the listener to stand up and look for something to fight, tooth and nail, to the death.