“Chicago” by Carl Sandburg consists of seven stanzas, each consisting of four lines.

The verse
form is known as quatrains. This poet uses free verse style to write this poem. Free verse is
characterized by its lack of regular meter or rhyme scheme, allowing for greater flexibility and
expression. The writer specifically writes about the city of Chicago, portraying it as a bustling,
dynamic, and vibrant metropolis. He highlights its various industries, its rough and gritty nature,
and its resilience in the face of criticism. This poem tells us about the essence and spirit of
Chicago, depicting it as a city of hard work, strength, and pride. It showcases both the positive
aspects, such as its industriousness and vitality, and the negative aspects, such as its brutality and
corruption. This poem also describes the bustling activity and the industriousness of the people
in Chicago. It portrays the city as a place of hard work and determination, where individuals take
pride in their labor and accomplishments.

The poem follows an irregular rhyme scheme, with occasional slant rhymes and internal rhymes.
For example, “Wheat” and “Freight” in the first stanza rhyme, while “soft” and “cough” in the
fifth stanza are slant rhymes. The lack of a consistent rhyme scheme contributes to the poem’s
free verse style.

This poem does not follow a specific pattern in terms of meter or rhyme scheme. Instead, it relies
on the rhythm of the language and the imagery to convey its message. The writer uses vivid
imagery and strong language to explain what happens in the poem. He paints a picture of
Chicago as a bustling, vibrant city, using metaphors and descriptive language to convey its
energy and vitality.

In our opinion, “Chicago” is a powerful and evocative portrayal of the city, capturing its essence
and spirit in vivid detail. Sandburg's use of free verse allows for a sense of freedom and
spontaneity, mirroring the dynamic nature of Chicago itself. The poem celebrates the city’s
industriousness and resilience while acknowledging its flaws, making it a rich and nuanced
depiction of urban life.