Can you help me identify the meaning of this poem?

Here is the poem that I am wondering about. What does it mean to you??

Eagle Plain

Robert Francis

The American eagle is not aware he is
the American eagle. He is never tempted
to look modest.

When orators advertise the American eagle’s
virtues, the American eagle is not listening.
This is his virtue.

He is somewhere else, he is mountains away
but even if he were near he would never
make an audience.

The American eagle never says he will serve
if drafted, will dutifully serve etc. He is
not at our service.

If we have honored him we have honored one
who unequivocally honors himself by
overlooking us.

He does not know the meaning of magnificent.
Perhaps we do not altogether either
who cannot touch him

1 comment to Can you help me identify the meaning of this poem?

  • Saint

    To me, the American Eagle in this poem IS an American who is wise and serves the country and all that good stuff.

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