1. Why does Martí personify the United States as "the giants in seven-league boots" (288)? What is Martí 's attitude towards America's imperialist ambitions if he views them through a critical eye?
2. Martí asserts that "the urgent duty of our America is to show herself as she is, one in soul and intent" (295). Why does Martí strongly advocate the unification of Latin American countries?
3. How does Martí use his comparison of "the artificial man" and "the natural man" to express the importance of embracing one's native roots?
4. Martí illustrates his preference for "creation" rather than "too much imitation" by encouraging Latin Americans to "make wine from plantains; it may be sour, but it is our wine" (294). How does Martí use this idea to resonate a sense of hope for the future of Latin Americans?
Martí argues that Latin America must create their own civilization and not follow the example of North America. It's not respectable to be a complete replica of another country. It is okay, however, to use them as inspiration of what they should and shouldn’t do. Try to learn from the mistakes of others and attempt to do better. The United States has a tradition of things ending badly. Latin America needed to create a nation that would be how they desired and not imitate the U.S. They wouldn’t be an “original” nation if they decided to mimic another country. It may not be as powerful a nation as the United States but at least it can be a nation that was unique and one they could call their own.
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