Song of Myself Study Guide

Walt Whitman (1819-1892)

Walt Whitman was an influential American poet, essayist, and journalist, recognized as one of the most remarkable voices in American literature. Born on May 31, 1819, in West Hills, New York, Whitman grew up in Brooklyn and received a modest education before working in various jobs, including as a printer, teacher, and journalist. His experiences across different walks of life profoundly influenced his writing.

Whitman is best known for his groundbreaking work, Leaves of Grass, first published in 1855. This collection of poetry, which he expanded and revised throughout his life, broke conventional poetic forms and celebrated democracy, individuality, and the human spirit. Whitman's use of free verse, vivid imagery, and candid exploration of the human experience marked a significant departure from the formal, structured poetry of his time.

Historical and Literary Context for "Song of Myself"

"Song of Myself" is one of the central poems in Leaves of Grass and is often considered Whitman's magnum opus. Written in the mid-19th century, a period of rapid change and growth in America, the poem reflects the ideals of transcendentalism, a philosophical movement that emphasized the inherent goodness of people and nature, individual intuition, and the rejection of materialism.

The United States in Whitman’s era was marked by profound social and political transformations, including the expansion westward, the intensification of debates over slavery, and the increasing push towards democracy and equality. These themes permeate "Song of Myself," where Whitman explores the interconnectedness of all people, the sanctity of the individual, and the democratic ethos.

Literarily, "Song of Myself" broke new ground with its free verse structure, a stark contrast to the rigid metrical and rhyming patterns that dominated earlier poetry. Whitman's innovative style allowed for a more organic and expansive expression of ideas, mirroring the diverse and dynamic nature of American society. The poem's inclusive, celebratory tone and its embrace of the self and the collective human experience continue to resonate with readers and cement Whitman's legacy as a pioneer of modern American poetry.

Whitman's work, including "Song of Myself," remains a testament to his visionary perspective on humanity and his enduring influence on the literary world.

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