“The Hill We Climb” is the poem composed and recited by Amanda Gorman at the Inauguration of the 46th President of the United States, Joseph R. Biden. It was written especially for the occasion. Hers was an impressive and memorable live performance.

It touches on themes of renewed hope, searching for unity, as well as the hurt and pain of a tumultuous term under President Donald Trump.

Amanda Gorman chose a flowing narrative rather than a formal rhyming structure to best express her subject. There are, however, occasional rhymes which give the work unity and rhythm.

Throughout the poem there are inter-textual references to the American Constitution, to American history and culture. The annotations will provide more detailed analysis.