We are more by Shane Koyczan

The poem seems to have many different meanings, the one that most stands out to me is the theme of us being something good in many different ways. The good things like, how we are defined by the little things, like our politeness, such as when we say “Thank you” and “Please”. Or how we are a new idea, that is being designed and realized. Also, we are defined by how we believe in many things, especially the generations to come, and how we are helping them everyday. We are also not ordinary, we are extraordinary. This is also had a huge impact on me because, I am Canadian, and people always make the stereo types, such as how we are only hockey players, and fishermen. I am still proud to be a Canadian, I would not want to be a different nationality........ever.

Shane used many metaphors, such as “We are the brightness of Chinatown and the laughter of Little Italy”. These metaphors, added great analogy to the poem, like the one above, it means many different things, like we light up Chinatown when we are there, or we provide light and fun for the people. The laughter in Little Italy can mean, when we go are in Italy the place is more fun, the multicultural stuff we do, adds to the city.

The impact that this poem had, when being spoken instead of read, was huge. The parts that are dramatic, such as the pause between important lines (We are the surprise the world has in store for you, it's true Canada is the 'what' in 'what's new'), and the words that were especially strong. His voice raised and changed pitch, during the very important parts (We are the true North Strong and Free) . Also after saying an important line, if the crowd clapped, he would wait to a specific moment to add effect.

By Rory Christopher
6/6