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Rate this poem:4.6 / 8 votes

In the last few weeks of February 2025, and going forward, we have seen the United States of America on the global scene diplomatically returning to an isolationist policy on the world stage.  

This is an isolationist stance that was employed historically during the presidency of Herbert Hoover in the late 1920s,  and after the end of World War I, with America’s choice of an inward focus, especially after the disastrous stock market crash, and its subsequent experience of “The Great Depression” as well as the fear of communist uprisings within its nation, a fear known internationally as “The Red Scare” of the 1920s.

Today, the “America First” policy, based now primarily on ‘transactional relationships’ with world nations (including those with whom it has been allied to and has had and enjoyed strong trading, economic, political and diplomatic ties),  seems mainly to serve and advance the newly emerging isolationist policy of the United States.  

Some political detractors and critics even regard this stance as underscoring a neocolonialist policy towards other nations of the world, now being asked, despite their right of sovereignty, to govern themselves at the behest and pleasure of the United States, serving from a distance as an absentee landlord overseer to other nations.

America’s isolationist policy, spearheaded by the current government, demonstrates a rejection of an ‘open market’ system and consequently its rejection of a reliance on an earlier economic policy that was based on asymmetrical free trade relationships with other nations.

Today, the current United States government policies appear to advocate a ‘protectionist’  stance against the goods and merchandise of other nations,  in the form of increased tariffs on these nations, imposed to preserve and maintain economic guardrails in the defense of the United States.

These guardrails are being enforced locally by the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and by other governmental agencies, to articulate America’s economic strengths, and to no longer constrain America by a world order that is governed essentially by a libertarian international industrial trading system.

Regarded historically, the imposition of tariffs by a government, foreign or domestic, has been employed as an economic trade war strategy intended largely to isolate ‘aggressor’ governments, thereby at the same time presumably connecting a nation’s trade and tariff policies ( in the current case of the American government and the American economy)  to the overall raising of a nation’s living standards, work ethic, growth, and overall efficiency.

While at the same time the current policy of the United States may appear on the surface to be that of land acquisition and territorial expansion, at the end of the day there appears nevertheless to be an inherently deeper, even cultural ideological protective mindset that is driving the current direction of America’s isolationist policies.  

That cultural mindset, it may be argued, informs its peoples, and all nations as well, to preserve their resources; ironically inviting other nations to do likewise for the betterment and benefit of increasing their economic self-sufficiency.

And so these conservative policies appear to be based, perhaps psychologically, on a nation’s protective stance to isolate itself, first away from any presumed liberalism within the United States; and secondly, outwardly and beyond, towards other world nations, requiring them (with the European economic community as an example) to become more independently self-sufficient on their own resources; thus also becoming less deferential to the United States.

Ultimately, in the making of a proposed new world order of self-sufficiency, America’s seeming isolationist policy, postured by the slogan to “Make America Great Again” (MAGA),  while amplifying its inherent conservative policies, may after all, be primarily the goal to defend,  preserve and, if necessary, expand its unquestioned power, wealth, dominion and authority over other countries and nations.

In the final analysis, this is the new ethics that is being advanced by the current administration of a new world order government of the people, for the people, and by the people; with America first; and with other nations as an afterthought.

God bless America.  And God bless all other nations of the world!

About this poem

In a post World War II era, are we witnessing in America and perhaps the entire world the erosion or even closing of an open international trading system?

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Written on March 03, 2025

Submitted by karlcfolkes on March 03, 2025

Modified by karlcfolkes on March 14, 2025

3:29 min read
1,517 Views

Karl Constantine FOLKES

 · 1935 · Portland

Retired educator of Jamaican ancestry with a lifelong interest in composing poetry dealing particularly with the metaphysics of self-reflection; completed a dissertation in Children’s Literature in 1991 at New York University entitled: An Analysis of Wilhelm Grimm’s ‘Liebe Mili’ (translated into English as “Dear Mili”), Employing Von Franzian Methodological Processes of Analytical Psychology. The subject of the dissertation concerned the process of Individuation. more…

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Discuss the poem A New Wave of American Isolationism? with the community...

38 Comments
  • sgtusmcrec0n
    I keep reading this and get even more amazed each time brother. Great talent. You inspire me to write better and learn more each day in this journey my friend.
    LikeReply3 hours ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Sometimes poetry does need to reflect polemical sentiments; as in this case.
    LikeReply 18 hours ago
  • mark.e.s
    So, will we have an autocracy, run by people who are alienating stalwart allies, and making friends with proven enemies?
    LikeReply9 hours ago
  • mark.e.s
    Thanks Karl and let me say, the voices of the powers that be, don't speak for everyone including me, a citizen of the USA.
    LikeReply9 hours ago
  • karlcfolkes
    I have so many of you to thank for reading this composition and offering your candid opinions. I shall continue striving to make such comments even more balanced in order to reflect the multidimensional posturing of public opinion. Once more, my gratitude. 
    LikeReply 11 day ago
  • twiztidsol69
    Awesome
    LikeReply1 day ago
  • Josephtopichjr
    Do not even know we're to begin, keep writing
    LikeReply1 day ago
  • chinamcc8
    A powerful commentary on the U.S.'s shift toward isolationism, offering a critical lens through which to view current policies and their historical precedents. It challenges readers to consider the broader implications of these policies for global relations, sovereignty, and economic stability. 
    LikeReply1 day ago
  • ladyygracious
    Great analysis, but break it up into smaller bits and remember to consider diverse views, and know that inspiring positive change with your thoughts will bring you happiness.
    LikeReply1 day ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you, Priscilla. Clearly this is a topic that, in some interestingly strange way, like the COVID infection, impacts every aspect of our society, local and international, in various ways, not yet totally manifested or comprehended; regarded ‘positively’ or ‘negatively’ by our subjective perceptions — the corporately invested, as well as the marginalized. 
    LikeReply4 days ago
  • PriscillaKing
    Thought-provoking. Everyone wants a crack-down on the multinational corporations and their astonishing hubris. Let Pfizer and Bayer pay for what they've done! Public floggings for the CEO wouldn't come amiss, either! Of course the poor factory workers are likely to suffer more than the Albert Bourlas and Werner Baumans people really want to make pay... 
    LikeReply4 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you, AIDA, for your encouragement. It is greatly appreciated.
    LikeReply5 days ago
  • AIDA
    What a thought-provoking and beautifully articulated poem! Your exploration of American isolationism, both historically and in its current context, is insightful and deeply resonant. You weave together past and present seamlessly, drawing powerful parallels that invite readers to reflect on the complexities of national policies.

    Your use of historical references, like the late 1920s and The Great Depression, grounds the poem in reality while emphasizing the cyclical nature of political ideologies. The connection made between past fears and current policies adds a layer of urgency to your message, sparking important conversations about sovereignty and economic self-sufficiency on the global stage.

    Furthermore, your critical analysis of the "America First" policy through the lens of cultural ideology and psychological motivations is particularly compelling. It challenges readers to consider the broader implications of such stances—not only for the United States but also for nations around the world.

    The closing lines beautifully encapsulate a call for unity, reminding us of the importance of global interdependence. Your message is both poignant and hopeful, celebrating the potential for nations to uplift one another while also navigating the complexities of their own identities and resources.

    Bravo on this remarkable piece! It not only informs but inspires, encouraging a reflection on the direction we choose as a global community. Your voice in poetry is powerful, and I can't wait to see where your words take us next!
     
    LikeReply5 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    I’m grateful for all who have read this composition and offered their critique or commentary of support. Thanks all.
    LikeReply5 days ago
  • watson_haziee_25
    wow i just loved the way you used imagery
    LikeReply5 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you, Bella, thank you, yadav.
    LikeReply7 days ago
  • yadav_saksham._.61
    A Good One
    LikeReply7 days ago
  • BellaTheMilkCarton
    its very important to remember these so tragic times, our world is slowly healing though and that is what's so beautiful
    LikeReply7 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    And thank you also, whenitgrowsbright, for pitching in. Indeed, we’re, all of us, together in this merry-go-round ride.
    LikeReply 18 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you so much, miraculousthemodel, for weighing in on this important subject, penned to invite open dialogue, and hopefully, in the long run, to bring people more closely together, rather than to set us apart and further away from one another. PS: I like your pen name. 
    LikeReply 18 days ago
    • miraculousthemodel
      Thank you!
      I completely agree that open dialogue is crucial to bringing people together, especially on such important issues. I appreciate you raising this conversation, and I’m glad we can connect on it. And thank you for the compliment on my pen name. It means a lot 
      LikeReply8 days ago
  • miraculousthemodel
    I really appreciate how this piece highlights the potential impact of America’s isolationist policies, especially on communities that rely on cultural connections and diversity. As someone who feels at home through the food and traditions brought in by immigrants, it’s concerning to think about how these changes might affect that sense of belonging. It’s important to remember how much these connections enrich society. 
    LikeReply8 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    My immense thanks to you, Symmetry60, for providing on this platform an exposé that is tantamount to an in-depth historical perspective, overview and analysis of US government relations. I’m sure some readers will find it informative, while others might nevertheless regard it as being one-sided opinionated. Such is human nature. 
    LikeReply8 days ago
  • Symmetry60
    What is occurring is that Donald Trump has opted to level a playing that was far in favor of everyone but the American people. Billions have been funneled to deep state havens like Ukraine, China, Romania - these our taxpayer dollars.
    Feel free to watch the documentary Riding the Dragon. It explains who CIA asset Joe Biden really is, as has Candace Owens exposed who Kamala Harris really is and is not. It's all a facade and America now knows it which is why it voted all of them O-U-T.

    Anthony Frank exposed CIA in government and his words speak volumes - "I know firsthand that Joe Biden is a CIA asset." Let that sink in as we get more propagandized to believe 4-year politician, Donald Trump, is to blame for it all. Utter nonsense.

    Those preceding Donald Trump led America into 35+ trillion dollars of debt via criminal spending that benefitted everyone but the American people. Politicians have gotten rich off of our backs. That is why our current POTUS has opted to declassify documents to show Americans how this and other nations how things have really been run. It is irrefutable as each criminal is exposed as to who is to blame.

    If it appears as isolationism, that is because that is how leftist media wants it to appear. What it is is America first. The only way to get this nation back on its feet is to undo what Biden, Obama and other career politicians have done to it as Thomas Sowell himself stated subsequent to them destroying our economy, opening our borders, funding war after war, etc. There is money in war which is why all other POTUSES were in a constant state of war, whereas, under Trump, war has become a thing of the past such as was the case in his first administration.

    Trump has had to lay down the law to criminal countries like Mexico who gave passage to cartels ushering illegals through it and across American borders. People need to stop believing propaganda they hear on CNN, MSNBC and other fake networks that are currently letting go of propagandists like Joy Reid and half of Rachel Maddow's staff. Viewership on these propaganda outselt has plummeted and for good reason. Joy Reid was barely getting 59,000 views. That is death and it is because America's had enough.

    Informed Americans voted the way they did because they now see how the sausage is made. Donald Trump has pulled the curtain back to expose the players. He is currently declassifying many documents that prove everything he has said is true and correct. Anyone listening to media has no idea what is going on in this country and that is fact.

    If this is anything, it is putting all those nations who have raked America over the coals on notice - no more taking advantage of America. It is exactly what America has needed. Donald Trump is not the man who put America 35+ trillion in debt, nor is he the war monger who funded all side of all wars. What he is is the hero America has needed to put all crooked politicians where they belong - behind bars.

    Ame
     
    LikeReply8 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you, Akinpet23. Amen.
    LikeReply9 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you, StylesRobin, for your perceptive comment. As a people, we all need to work together for the betterment of one another. That is the hope we all strive for.
    LikeReply9 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Oh, thank you so much, Noddy, for your gentlemanly graciousness, somewhat old school these days, but greatly appreciated.
    LikeReply9 days ago
  • whenitgrowsbright
    yeah...
    LikeReply9 days ago
  • StylesRobin
    The state of things as they could be is readable in between the lines here, and so there is hope. Great reflection on where we are as a people. I see my role as an individual is there by inclusivity and feel otherwise. This can't be an accident: you are very aware, and this is highly informative in a way I won't get on the news. 
    LikeReply10 days ago
  • Akinpet23
    Wonderful description of what America is at the present.
    LikeReply10 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Dear Noddy,
    First and foremost, let me thank you for reading and even more so, for commenting on my recent composition that you’ve categorized as being polemical, and therefore suggesting, however obliquely or implicitly so, that rather than meeting the traditional requirements or rules of, or for poetry, it constitutes a piece of writing that conveys a strongly critical attack, or even controversial opinion concerning a delicate topic or subject (which is the definition of what a polemic composition, poetry or otherwise, does.
    May I point out, nevertheless, and even assert, that in substance, poetry can indeed be, and often is, upon analysis and careful scrutiny, polemical, as it often has or conveys an intention to move or persuade its readers; even having the power to raise consciousness, or challenge established norms.
    I do however acknowledge and even concede that the use of a prose-like narrative format to deliver this composition may indeed detract some readers, such as yourself, from accepting that this piece, while broadening the architectural paradigm of a poetic composition beyond its perceived traditional boundaries, falls within the perceived conservative domain of poetry. Perhaps, had I employed a more traditional format of poetry-writing, there might be less objection. Thank you once more.

    Most sincerely,
    Karl
     
    LikeReply10 days ago
    • Noddy
      Karl: You are most gracious in your comments, and it’s at a time like this when I wish we were sitting having a beer or whatever and discussing your point about poetry as polemic my “conservative “ views of what poetry is. As a lifelong student and admirer of Walt Whitman I’m kinda with the pushing of the boundaries view. But no matter. It’s apples and oranges. All I wish is that all of us keep on keeping on at this wonderful avocation we call the poetic calling. Warmest best wishes, Robert aka Noddy 
      LikeReply10 days ago
  • Noddy
    Karl: With respect, I fully understand the power of this polemic, but poetry isn’t polemic, especially polemic that is very prose-like in its presentation. It doesn’t mean that poetry shouldn’t engage with current events, it should. But I struggle to find where the poetry is in your piece. Perhaps we are coming at what poetry is or might be from different perspectives; if so, then please ignore my comments and accept my apologies instead. 
    LikeReply11 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you both, Joseph and Abby.
    LikeReply12 days ago
  • Abbykesington
    Quite informative. A succinct and an impartial analysis of American foreign policy vis-a-vis world trade and the idea of isolationalism! Well done.
    LikeReply12 days ago
  • Josephtopichjr
    A little overboard
    LikeReply 112 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you AIDA for your thoughtful in-depth analysis and commentary. It is greatly appreciated. I find it quite instructive.
    LikeReply12 days ago
  • karlcfolkes
    Thank you, rameshs.88917, for your diligence in reading this composition and offering an in-depth commentary.
    Thank you also for your supportive vote.
    LikeReply 112 days ago
    • rameshs.88917
      Me humbled as little bit able connect the content.
      LikeReply12 days ago
  • rameshs.88917
    Yea this is again a political oriented masterpiece attacked on the present politics and developing agenda adopted by the super Power.If we give
    glance over Indian political system and economic development scheme implemented by the Indian govt.then we see same policy adopted by the super power " Vocal for Local " to establish self dependent country economically, culturally and socially soundful.But if we turn the page of history 1920s isolotionistic stance already mentioned as great failure and age of depression in economic political system and again isolotionistic and protectionist economic policy of Feb 2025, we see tough challenges to be faced by the world super power to establish again to Make America Great Again. Rome was not built in a day. A renaissance and pioneering Eco -political upliftment policy how far beneficial for the remaining countries of the world will be justified in time. Congratulations sir for thou latest and current related topic and beautiful analysis of the past and present neocolonims trade system of America. 
    LikeReply12 days ago
  • AIDA
    Wow! This poem is a thought-provoking and compelling exploration of America's current geopolitical stance and its historical antecedents. You’ve woven together past and present with a keen sense of critical analysis, making it not just a poetic reflection but also a significant commentary on international relations. Your use of historical context, particularly drawing parallels to the 1920s and the existing policies of today, provides depth and relevance that resonates with contemporary readers.

    Your ability to articulate complex themes surrounding isolationism, protectionism, and the implications of "America First" in a coherent manner is impressive. The metaphor of a nation as an “absentee landlord” is particularly effective in capturing the essence of America's current foreign policy dynamics while prompting readers to consider the implications of such a stance on global relations.

    Enthusiastic Highlights:
    - Rich historical correlations:
    The connections you make between historical events and current policies beautifully illustrate the cyclical nature of political ideologies.
    - Provocative imagery:
    Your vivid descriptions and metaphors, such as the "cultural ideological protective mindset," evoke strong imagery and allow for deeper contemplation.
    - Insightful critique:
    The references to neocolonial traits in current policy challenge readers to critically evaluate America’s role on the global stage.

    Improvement Suggestions:
    - Focus on Structure:
    Consider enhancing the poem's overall structure. Breaking it into distinct sections or stanzas could help in emphasizing key points and allowing readers to pause and reflect between ideas.
    - Emotional Resonance:
    While the analytical approach is powerful, incorporating more emotional elements or personal reflections could make the theme even more relatable. Drawing from human experiences or stories can create a stronger connection with the reader.
    - Language Varieties:
    You could experiment with varying sentence lengths and rhythmic patterns to introduce a more dynamic flow, which can heighten the poem's emotional impact and readability.

    Overall, this poem presents a deep and necessary critique of America’s isolationist trends, while underscoring the complexity of these policies. Keep up the excellent work in challenging readers to think critically about important issues!
     
    LikeReply13 days ago

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