José Martí was born in Cuba in 1853. He was a leader of the independence movement in Spain. He is considered as a national hero of the Cuban people. José Martí was also a very famous poet and writer. In fact, the words of his poetry have been used in famous songs.
Two country
Two countries I have: Cuba and the night.
Or are they both? Not good remove
His Majesty the sun, with long veils
And a carnation in the hand, silent
Cuba, a sad widow appears to me.
I know what that bloody carnation is
That trembles in his hand! It is empty
My chest is broken and empty
Where the heart was. It's time
To start dying. The night is good
to say goodbye. Light clutters
And the human word. The universe
Speak better than man.
Which flag
Inviting to fight, the red flame
Of the candle flames. The Windows
I open, already narrow in me. Mute, breaking
The leaves of the carnation, like a cloud
That clouds the sky, Cuba, widow, happens ...

Homework: What meaning or message do you think Martí is trying to express in this poem? What is your opinion about the poem?