Read the poem "I Hear America Singing" by Walt Whitman.

I hear America singing, the varied carols I hear;
Those of mechanics—each one singing his, as it should be, blithe and strong;
The carpenter singing his, as he measures his plank or beam,
The mason singing his, as he makes ready for work, or leaves off work;
The boatman singing what belongs to him in his boat—the deckhand singing on the steamboat deck;
The shoemaker singing as he sits on his bench—the hatter singing as he stands;
The wood-cutter's song—the ploughboy's, on his way in the morning, or at the noon intermission, or at sundown;
The delicious singing of the mother—or the young wife at work—or of the girl sewing or washing—Each singing what belongs to her, and to none else;
The day what belongs to the day—At night, the party of young fellows, robust, friendly,
Singing, with open mouths, their strong melodious songs.

What best describes the overall tone of the poem?

Critical and concerned
Humorous and playful
Joyful and positive
Serious and mournful

‘I hear America Singing’ is a beautiful poem written by Walt Whitman. Throughout the poem Whitman have made use of a very joyful and positive tone. One by one the poet appreciates the American working class people and their work. He describes their cheerfulness as they sing while performing their work.

He addresses the carpenters, shoemakers, boatmen, and mechanics. He describes their happiness while they perform their daily work. The poet can hear America singing a merry and joyful song.