In Frances Ellen Watkins Harper’s poem Aunt Chloe’s Politics, Aunt Chloe is a straightforward and honest speaker who highlights the dishonest and self-serving nature of political institutions and politicians. The poem conveys Aunt Chloe’s frustration with unethical activity while highlighting the need of honesty in voting and leadership.

In the first few phrases, Aunt Chloe admits that she doesn’t know anything about politics. However, she assertively points out that many politicians engage in questionable behavior, referring to these as “mighty ugly tricks.” She draws attention to the hypocrisy she observes in political leaders by speaking in an informal and direct manner.

She points out that some politicians are charming and make an effort to appear sympathetic, likening their fake sweetness to an egg that is full of meat. This powerful metaphor illustrates how these individuals have deceitful intentions despite their seeming kindness.

Aunt Chloe strongly opposes dishonesty, especially when someone purposefully commits a transgression but denies it. She denounces those who violate the trust of their community by saying, “I haven’t sold my race.” Her comments demonstrate her disdain for deceit and lying, especially when they obstruct the progress of society.

The poem then shifts to the subject of education, which is one of Aunt Chloe’s concerns. She highlights the underfunding of schools and emphasizes that financial mismanagement affects everyone, whether or not black or white individuals are at fault. Her belief in shared responsibility and the need of addressing systemic problems for the good of all is demonstrated by her revelation.

It also condemns the practice of “buying up each other,” which Aunt Chloe describes as worse than cruel. This undoubtedly refers to unethical political strategies like bribery or manipulation. Aunt Chloe insists that voting is a fundamental right despite her disapproval of these dishonest activities. Despite her advocacy for “voting clean,” she insists that voting must be done in an honest and moral manner.

The poem’s finale is Aunt Chloe’s moral stance against corruption. Her direct observation and emphasis on justice resonate as a call to participate in politics with moral character. Frances Ellen Watkins Harper critiques societal issues while promoting fairness and transparency via Aunt Chloe’s viewpoint.

In a few brief stanzas, Aunt Chloe’s Politics makes a compelling case for the need of moral leadership and civic responsibility. Harper uses Aunt Chloe’s voice to draw attention to the struggles that marginalized people face, particularly in regards to political corruption and education. The poem emphasizes the need of integrity and fairness in directing both individual and collective behavior, including voting. Because Aunt Chloe’s perspective serves as a reminder of how individual actions influence the greater community, the poem offers a timeless reflection on the moral responsibility of citizens and leaders.