We have memorized America
-- Speaker (Line 1)

Importance: This is the first line of the poem. Here, Williams acknowledges the familiarity most Americans have with American history – they are aware of its founding, its triumphs, and important historical figures that played a role in its development. However, Williams uses the word "memorize" to suggest that simply knowing about the country's past is not enough; present citizens are tasked with the responsibility of carrying out the values that this past inspires.

We like the places they take us. Mostly we do.
-- Speaker (Line 5)

Importance: As Williams recounts the ways people engage with American history, he is careful not to paint a completely idealistic portrait of the past. Here, he acknowledges the darker sides to American history, thereby encouraging his listeners to see the country as imperfect but nonetheless a work in progress, of which they should be a part.

But where are we going to be, and why...
-- Speaker (Line 9)