20th Century America

The speaker writes from the vantage point of America in the early 20th century, when Wilcox was a popular and prolific poet. She argues in the poem that the systems of governance, trends in culture, and general societal organization in place at this time are corrupt and inequitable. Instead, she encourages readers to use their voices to change these systems and create lasting change, remaining hopeful for the progress that one may enjoy in the future. Despite "Protest" applying specifically to Wilcox's own time, many elements of the poem can be considered timeless – namely the argument for equality among all citizens and the concept of free speech as a useful and effective tool for generating important change.

The Past

"Protest" uses the historical past as an example for how protestation and free speech can effect change. The speaker refers to the Spanish Inquisition – a notoriously cruel...