Explain whether you think the poem or the speech is more effective at honoring those involved in the Civil War.

Answer:

I thought the poem "O Captain! My Captain!" was more effective at honoring someone involved in the war. Whitman begins by appealing to emotions by describing all the excitement after winning the war. But then he shows the sad emotions connected to Lincoln's death. The poem lets Whitman use emotion creatively. Even though the soldiers were brave and deserve to be honored, Lincoln really helped end the war.