The+Lynching

THE LYNCHING IS spirit is smoke ascended to high heaven. His father, by the cruelest way of pain, Had bidden him to his bosom once again; The awful sin remained still unforgiven. All night a bright and solitary star (Perchance the one that ever guided him, Yet gave him up at last to Fate's wild whim) Hugh pitifully o'er the swinging char. Day dawned, and soon the mixed crowds came to view The ghastly body swaying in the sun: The women thronged to look, but never a one Showed sorrow in her eyes of steely blue; And little lads, lynchers that were to be, Danced round the dreadful thing in fiendish glee.
 * // by: Claude McKay (1890-1948) //**

1. A lynching is more than hanging. What is it? Be certain to place it within historical and cultural context. 2. To what/whom is McKay's poem alluding? 3. What might the "awful sin" be that is "unforgiven"? This can be read in both a literal and ironic/sardonic manner. 4. What is suggested about God by the "bright and solitary star" and the reference about "Fate's wild whim"? 5. Why is it important that the eyes of the women are "blue"? Do not focus on the fact that they did not show "sorrow" or they are "steely". 6. What is stated about the "little lads" future? 7. What is the "dreadful thing"?