Understanding the formative figures and actions that formed Walt Whitman’s literary sensibilities is crucial to appreciating the revolutionary nature of his work. Analyzing these influences gives a framework for deciphering his poetic improvements in model, theme, and subject material. For instance, his embrace of transcendentalist philosophy, evident in his celebration of nature and the person, might be linked to writers like Ralph Waldo Emerson. Equally, his publicity to opera and oratory contributed to the distinctive cadence and performative facets of his poetry.
Exploring the sources of Whitman’s inspiration provides helpful perception into the evolution of American literature. By tracing these connections, students and readers acquire a deeper understanding of the cultural and mental currents that converged in his work. This exploration illuminates the historic context that fueled his radical departure from conventional poetic varieties and his embrace of democratic beliefs, which profoundly impacted subsequent generations of writers. His absorption of numerous influences, from Romantic poets to working-class voices, contributed to the uniquely American voice he cast.
