Pound's Views on America

Within the poem Salutation by Ezra Pound, I first thought the content was just the narrator's observation on society. But after learning more about Ezra Pound's absolutely crazy life, the poem definitely represents Pound's hostility toward America. When he did not know any better, Pound thought America had the potential to achieve perfection, especially when it comes to lyrical poems that consist of art. Yet, during post-WWII, Pound was declared insane. His reaction to America being cruel to Germany and Japan is reflected within Salutation. For example, the very first line consists of "O generation of the thoroughly smug and thoroughly uncomfortable," one can instantly see Pound is speaking to an audience that includes America and her undesirable qualities. Hence, the negative connotation of the words "smug" and "uncomfortable". Although, the people that habitat in America are ignorant of the corrupt engagements going on in their country: "I have seen their smiles full of teeth". Pound thinks society could care less which is why they still go on in life acting pleasant. But Pound knows the truth about America which is why he has the illusion that he is better than everybody else in this country, given the line "And I am happier than you are". Basically, Pound addresses the Americans who are full of fake laughter and Pound gains a persona of righteousness. This short poem concludes only a small part of the unhinging that is happening within Pound's disabled mind. Soon after, Pound is declared legally insane after broadcasting anti-American propaganda in some European countries. Obviously, Pound has an attachment to America's society as reflected in the Salutation poem. Given the title itself, Pound is making a farewell to America's morals and standards. Luckily for Pound's readers, this is only one of many, many, many poems that represent this author's wonderful and depressing feelings toward America.