Walt Whitman

Walt Whitman Biography

Walt Whitman (May 31, 1819 – March 26, 1892) was an American poet, essayist, and journalist, often referred to as the 'father of free verse.' Born in West Hills, Long Island, New York, Whitman was the second of nine children in a family of modest means. His early life was marked by frequent moves and limited formal education, which ended when he was 11. He then began working to help support his family, gaining experience in the printing and newspaper industries.

In 1855, Whitman self-published the first edition of Leaves of Grass, a groundbreaking collection of poetry that he continued to revise and expand throughout his life. The work was notable for its use of free verse and its celebration of the human spirit, democracy, and the natural world. Although initial reception was mixed, with some critics objecting to its candid depictions of sexuality, the collection eventually became a cornerstone of American literature.

During the American Civil War, Whitman volunteered as a nurse in Union Army hospitals, providing care and comfort to wounded soldiers. This experience profoundly influenced his writing, leading to the creation of poems that reflect on the brutality of war and the resilience of the human spirit. His poem 'O Captain! My Captain!' is a notable elegy mourning the death of President Abraham Lincoln.

After the war, Whitman held various government jobs in Washington, D.C., and continued to write and publish. In his later years, he settled in Camden, New Jersey, where he continued to work on Leaves of Grass and other writings until his death on March 26, 1892. Whitman's legacy endures as a foundational figure in American poetry, whose work has inspired countless writers and continues to be studied for its innovative style and profound themes.

Trivia About Walt Whitman

• Whitman was largely self-educated, voraciously reading classics, history, and literature.
• He worked as a journalist, teacher, and government clerk before gaining fame as a poet.
• Whitman was a proponent of the 'temperance' movement and rarely drank alcohol.
• He designed his own tomb, a granite mausoleum in Harleigh Cemetery, Camden.

Famous Quotes by Walt Whitman

• 'Do I contradict myself? Very well, then I contradict myself, I am large, I contain multitudes.' – Song of Myself
• 'Keep your face always toward the sunshine—and shadows will fall behind you.'
• 'I celebrate myself, and sing myself.' – Song of Myself

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Walt Whitman?

Walt Whitman was an American poet, essayist, and journalist, best known for his poetry collection Leaves of Grass, which is considered a landmark in American literature.

What are some of his notable works?

Whitman's most famous work is Leaves of Grass, a collection of poems that he revised throughout his life. Other notable poems include 'O Captain! My Captain!' and 'Song of Myself.'

What themes did Whitman explore in his writings?

Whitman's writings often explored themes of democracy, individuality, nature, love, and the human experience. He celebrated the human body and spirit, and his work reflects a deep appreciation for the diversity of American life.

Related Literary Movements

Walt Whitman is associated with transcendentalism and realism, bridging the two movements with his focus on individual experience and the collective human spirit. His use of free verse was innovative and influenced future literary movements.

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