The word "We" is repeated eight times in this eight-line poem as a signal that the boys have a group identity. The boys want to be defined by their rebellious actions, which place them at odds with polite society.
- Why does Brooks compare the poem's use of "We" to the WWII era graffiti proclaiming "Kilroy was here"? (source) Who was Kilroy, and how are the pool players like him?
- How does the name of the pool hall, "The Golden Shovel," shape our views of the young men?
- Are these boys rebellious? Why or why not?
- Do the pool players remind you of certain groups of people with whom you go to (or went to) school? Are they stereotypical?
The young men in "We Real Cool" have a distinctive identity that is shaped by the jazz and blues culture in mid-20th century Chicago.