"On the Pulse of Morning" Summary

Though it was written for the first inauguration of President Bill Clinton, "On the Pulse of the Morning" addresses the entire human race. The earth itself first speaks, reminding the reader of the age of the planet. The earth then implores all people to stand proudly on a firm rock and cease from hiding in the darkness of the past. Next, a river speaks, calling to humanity to erase the boundaries that separate all the different peoples of the earth. Forsaking greed and cynicism will bring peace, promises the river. Finally, the tree speaks, vouching that next to the river, grounded in the rock, is a good and safe place to be. The past cannot be changed, but should not be forgotten, according to the tree. For all people, hope lies in the...