The Devil's in the Details of Angel Island Poetry

While I have never been the best at analyzing poetry, it doesn't take a genius to see the overarching theme emerging from the lines written over a century ago on Angel Island. The poems express a deep sense of helplessness and frustration- anger really, if we're being honest. And it is entirely justified.

Peter Kvidera explains in his essay that the poetry is at the intersection of the literary and legal space by bringing the reader into the reality of the consequences of the racist Exclusion Act. They reflect the fact that proud and honest men are treated as prisoners, and the law was to blame for the mistreatment. Some poems refer to this law obliquely, while others pinpoint exactly where the issue lies. I feel both approaches work well in demonstrating the devastating effects this had on the morale of Chinese immigrants.

 I find myself drawn to the piece that begins "America has power, but not justice". I think that pretty much sums up the  late 19th and early 20th century. What's more, I honestly believe it still rings true. Regardless, I find that these poems are a delicate and beautiful response to a harsh and ugly unjust system of laws.

Question: There were hundreds of these poems on the walls of Angel Island, with some being responses to others. Of the poems presented here, which one would you choose to respond to? Would you respond with hope, encouragement, or commiseration?