Detailed Analysis of Song of Myself by Walt Whitman

Walt Whitman's Song of Myself (1892 version) is a celebration of the self and the interconnectedness of all things. The poem explores themes of individuality, spirituality, and the beauty of the natural world, weaving together personal experiences and observations of everyday life. Whitman uses free verse and catalogues to encompass a vast range of subjects, from the sensual to the spiritual, the mundane to the profound. The poem's tone is celebratory and inclusive, asserting the poet's oneness with humanity and nature.

Whitman's Conception of the Self in Song of Myself

What is Whitman's conception of the self and its relationship to the universe?

Whitman presents the self as inherently connected to the universe, encompassing all things and experiences. The self is not separate from the world but rather an integral part of it.

The self is expansive and all-encompassing: The speaker declares, "I celebrate myself, and sing myself," suggesting a focus on the individual. However, this quickly expands to include the reader, "And what I assume you shall assume, / For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you." This sets the stage for a conception of self that is not limited to the individual but extends outwards.
The self is rooted in the physical world and the natural environment: Whitman emphasizes the physicality of the self through descriptions of the body, senses, and experiences in nature. The speaker proclaims a connection to the earth and air: "My tongue, every atom of my blood, form’d from this soil, this air, / Born here of parents born here from parents the same, and their parents the same."
The self is connected to all humanity: Whitman emphasizes a shared brotherhood and sisterhood among all people. The speaker states, "And I know that the spirit of God is the brother of my own, / And that all the men ever born are also my brothers, and the women my sisters and lovers." This connection transcends social divisions, embracing even the marginalized and ostracized: "The kept-woman, sponger, thief, are hereby invited, / The heavy-lipp’d slave is invited, the venerealee is invited; / There shall be no difference between them and the rest."
The self is a conduit for the voices of the universe: Whitman describes the self as a medium for expressing the experiences and voices of all beings. The speaker declares, "Through me many long dumb voices, / Voices of the interminable generations of prisoners and slaves, / Voices of the diseas’d and despairing and of thieves and dwarfs."
The self is eternal and transcends death: Whitman emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and death, stating, "The smallest sprout shows there is really no death, / And if ever there was it led forward life, and does not wait at the end to arrest it, / And ceas’d the moment life appear’d." The speaker embraces death as a natural part of the life cycle, declaring, "I pass death with the dying and birth with the new-wash’d babe."
The self is a constantly evolving entity: The speaker acknowledges the ever-changing nature of the self, stating, "I am large, I contain multitudes." The self encompasses past, present, and future, stating, "The past and present wilt—I have fill’d them, emptied them, / And proceed to fill my next fold of the future."
The self is ultimately unknowable and mysterious: The speaker acknowledges the limitations of language and comprehension, stating, "There is that in me—I do not know what it is—but I know it is in me." This suggests that the self, while connected to the universe, retains a fundamental mystery and depth that defies full understanding.

The self, as envisioned by Whitman, is a vast and dynamic entity that is inseparable from the universe. It is a microcosm of the macrocosm, reflecting the interconnectedness of all things. Through this expansive conception of self, Whitman suggests that true understanding and fulfillment lie in embracing the totality of experience, both within and without.

Whitman's Interconnectedness of All Things

How does Whitman portray the interconnectedness of all things?

Whitman portrays the interconnectedness of all things through several key themes and literary devices in "Song of Myself":

Shared Origins and Composition: The speaker emphasizes that all beings are formed from the same elements of the earth and are therefore fundamentally connected. The opening lines declare, "For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you. I loafe and invite my soul, / I lean and loafe at my ease observing a spear of summer grass". This shared atomic makeup extends to all living things, creating a kinship between the speaker and a seemingly insignificant blade of grass.
Universal Experiences and Empathy: The speaker lists a vast catalogue of human experiences, from mundane daily tasks to profound moments of joy and suffering. This technique reinforces the idea that all individuals, regardless of their background, share a common human experience. The speaker declares, "I am of old and young, of the foolish as much as the wise, / Regardless of others, ever regardful of others, / Maternal as well as paternal, a child as well as a man". This catalogue culminates in the assertion that the self encompasses the experiences of all: "And such as it is to be of these more or less I am, / And of these one and all I weave the song of myself".
Transcendence of Time and Space: The speaker's journey through time and space collapses the boundaries between past, present, and future, demonstrating the interconnectedness of all moments. Through imaginative leaps, the speaker inhabits various personas and historical events, declaring, "I am an old artillerist, / I tell of my fort’s bombardment, / I am there again". These journeys demonstrate that time is not linear but rather a continuous flow, and the self exists within this flow, connected to all moments.
Sensory Perception as a Unifying Force: Whitman's vivid and often sensual language appeals to the reader's senses, creating a visceral experience of interconnectedness. The poem is filled with detailed descriptions of sounds, smells, textures, and sights. The speaker declares, "Houses and rooms are full of perfumes, the shelves are crowded with perfumes, / I breathe the fragrance myself and know it and like it". These sensory experiences are shared by all beings, further reinforcing the notion of a common link.
Acceptance and Celebration of All: Whitman's inclusive vision embraces all aspects of the human experience, including those that are typically marginalized or rejected. The speaker celebrates the diversity of humanity, declaring, "Of every hue and caste am I, of every rank and religion, / A farmer, mechanic, artist, gentleman, sailor, quaker, / Prisoner, fancy-man, rowdy, lawyer, physician, priest". This radical acceptance extends to the body, sexuality, and even death, suggesting that true unity arises from embracing the totality of existence.

Through these various means, Whitman emphasizes that all beings and experiences are woven together in the vast fabric of the universe. This interconnectedness transcends individual differences and limitations, suggesting that true understanding and fulfillment lie in recognizing and celebrating this fundamental unity.

Whitman's Sensory Details in Nature

What specific sensory details does Whitman use to describe nature?

Whitman uses a rich array of sensory details to evoke the natural world, immersing the reader in the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the environment. Here are some specific examples from "Song of Myself":

Sight: Whitman employs vivid imagery to paint pictures of the natural world. He describes "a spear of summer grass", "the play of shine and shade on the trees as the supple boughs wag", and "the clear light play[ing] on the brown gray and green intertinged" of hay. These visual details create a sense of immediacy and invite the reader to see the world through the speaker's eyes.
Sound: The poem is filled with a symphony of sounds from nature. The speaker describes "Echoes, ripples, buzz'd whispers", "the sniff of green leaves and dry leaves, and of the shore and dark-color’d sea-rocks, and of hay in the barn", and "the sound of the belch'd words of my voice loos’d to the eddies of the wind". These auditory details create a dynamic and immersive soundscape.
Smell: Whitman evokes the scents of the natural world through evocative descriptions. The speaker mentions "Houses and rooms...full of perfumes" and contrasts this with the "odorless" atmosphere he prefers. This juxtaposition highlights the speaker's preference for the natural and unadulterated. The speaker also describes "the sniff of green leaves and dry leaves", appealing to the reader's sense of smell and memory.
Touch: Whitman emphasizes the tactile experience of nature. The speaker describes the feeling of "a few light kisses, a few embraces, a reaching around of arms", conveying a sense of intimacy and connection with the natural world. He also mentions "the feeling of health", suggesting a visceral awareness of his physical being in the environment. Later, the speaker describes feeling "the soft jolts" of a hay wagon.

By engaging multiple senses, Whitman creates a multi-dimensional portrait of nature, allowing the reader to experience it fully. These sensory details not only bring the natural world to life but also emphasize the speaker's deep connection with it, reflecting the interconnectedness of self and universe that permeates "Song of Myself".

Whitman's Portrayal of Himself in "Song of Myself"

How does Whitman portray himself in "Song of Myself"?

In "Song of Myself", Whitman constructs a complex and multifaceted portrait of himself, exceeding the limitations of a traditional autobiographical self. He presents himself as an expansive, all-encompassing figure who embodies the experiences of all people and is deeply connected to the natural world.

Here are some key aspects of Whitman's self-portrayal:

Embodiment of America: Whitman portrays himself as a representative figure of America, encompassing its vastness, diversity, and spirit of democracy. He declares, "I am of old and young, of the foolish as much as the wise" and lists various occupations and social roles, including "A farmer, mechanic, artist, gentleman, sailor, quaker, / Prisoner, fancy-man, rowdy, lawyer, physician, priest". This catalogue of American identities highlights the inclusivity and democratic ideals that Whitman champions.
Connection to Nature: Whitman's self is inextricably intertwined with the natural world. He uses vivid sensory details to describe his experiences in nature, emphasizing sights, sounds, smells, and textures. The speaker describes leaning and loafing "at my ease observing a spear of summer grass", breathing in the "odorless" atmosphere, feeling "the soft jolts" of a hay wagon, and hearing the "sound of the belch'd words of my voice loos'd to the eddies of the wind". These visceral descriptions demonstrate the speaker's profound connection to the natural world and his belief that the self is not separate from but rather a part of nature.
Champion of the Common Man: Whitman celebrates the ordinary and elevates the mundane, portraying himself as a champion of the common man. He embraces those who are often marginalized or overlooked, stating, "The kept-woman, sponger, thief, are hereby invited, / The heavy-lipp’d slave is invited, the venerealee is invited; / There shall be no difference between them and the rest". This radical inclusivity reflects Whitman's belief in the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their social standing or perceived flaws.
Eternal and Everlasting: Whitman presents a self that transcends the limitations of time and space, embracing both life and death as integral parts of existence. He declares, "I am deathless" and "pass death with the dying and birth with the new-wash'd babe", emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and the continuity of the self beyond physical death. He further states that he has "the best of time and space, and was never measured and never will be measured", suggesting a self that exists beyond conventional boundaries.
A Voice for All: Whitman portrays himself as a conduit for the experiences and voices of all humanity, encompassing a vast multitude within his own self. He declares, "Through me many long dumb voices, / Voices of the interminable generations of prisoners and slaves, / Voices of the diseas'd and despairing and of thieves and dwarfs". This representation of the self as a collective voice highlights Whitman's belief in the interconnectedness of all people and his desire to give voice to the voiceless.

Through these various portrayals, Whitman constructs a self that is bold, unconventional, and expansive. He challenges traditional notions of individuality and identity, presenting a self that is constantly evolving, encompassing multitudes, and deeply connected to the universe. This radical and inclusive vision of the self reflects Whitman's unique perspective on humanity and his celebration of the beauty and complexity of existence.

Whitman’s Attitude Towards Science and Religion

What is Whitman’s attitude towards science and religion?

Whitman's attitude toward science and religion in Song of Myself is complex and nuanced, reflecting both an embrace and a transcendence of these systems of thought. He acknowledges the value of scientific inquiry and technological advancements while emphasizing the limitations of reason and dogma in comprehending the mysteries of existence.

Whitman's perspective on science and religion can be understood through the following points:

Appreciation for Science: Whitman expresses admiration for scientific exploration and discovery. He declares, "Hurrah for positive science! long live exact demonstration!" and lists various scientific figures, including the "lexicographer", "chemist", "geologist", and "mathematician". These professions represent the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the natural world, which Whitman values. He acknowledges the "useful" nature of scientific facts but notes that they are not his ultimate "dwelling". This suggests that while Whitman appreciates the contributions of science, he sees it as a means of accessing a deeper understanding of life that goes beyond empirical observation.
Transcendence of Dogma: Whitman critiques religious dogma and the limitations of organized religion. While he acknowledges the existence of "God" and engages with religious imagery, he rejects blind faith and uncritical acceptance of religious doctrines. He states, "I do not despise you priests, all time, the world over, / My faith is the greatest of faiths and the least of faiths". This suggests that his personal faith is broader and more inclusive than any specific religious doctrine. He further embraces a variety of religious practices, from "honoring the gods, saluting the sun" to "making a fetich of the first rock or stump" and "accepting the Gospels, accepting him that was crucified". This eclectic approach suggests that Whitman seeks spiritual truth in various forms, beyond the confines of established religions.
Emphasis on Personal Experience: Ultimately, Whitman prioritizes personal experience and intuition over scientific or religious dogma. He encourages individuals to discover their own truths through direct engagement with the world. He declares, "You shall not look through my eyes either, nor take things from me, / You shall listen to all sides and filter them from your self". This statement emphasizes the importance of individual perception and interpretation in shaping one's understanding of the world. He further states, "Logic and sermons never convince, / The damp of the night drives deeper into my soul", suggesting that intuitive and emotional experiences hold greater power than intellectual reasoning or religious teachings.
The Unity of Science and Spirit: Whitman envisions a harmonious relationship between science and spirituality. He sees the natural world as a manifestation of the divine and uses scientific language to describe spiritual experiences. He states, "I see that the elementary laws never apologize, / (I reckon I behave no prouder than the level I plant my house by, after all.)". This comparison suggests that the laws of nature and the principles of spirituality are both expressions of a fundamental truth that governs the universe.

Through his poetry, Whitman encourages a holistic understanding of existence that embraces both the scientific and the spiritual. He acknowledges the contributions of science in understanding the material world while also emphasizing the importance of personal experience, intuition, and a deep connection to nature in comprehending the mysteries of life and the universe. He ultimately suggests that true knowledge is found not in rigid doctrines, but in the interplay between observation, experience, and spiritual insight.

Whitman's Vision of Death and Immortality

Walt Whitman's Song of Myself presents a distinctive and unconventional vision of death and immortality, challenging traditional conceptions of mortality and the afterlife. Rather than fearing death, Whitman embraces it as an integral part of life, a transition that leads to new forms of existence and a merging with the larger universe.

Here are some key aspects of Whitman’s perspective on death and immortality:

Death as a Natural Process: Whitman views death as a natural and inevitable part of life's cycle, not something to be feared or mourned. He states, "I pass death with the dying and birth with the new-wash’d babe", emphasizing the continuity between these two seemingly opposite experiences. By associating death with birth, Whitman suggests that death is not an ending but a transformation, a transition into a new form of being.
Rejection of Traditional Afterlife Concepts: Whitman rejects traditional religious conceptions of heaven and hell, suggesting that immortality is not found in a separate realm but rather in the ongoing cycle of life and the interconnectedness of all things. He states, "There was never any more inception than there is now, / Nor any more youth or age than there is now, / And will never be any more perfection than there is now, / Nor any more heaven or hell than there is now". This implies that heaven and hell exist in the present moment, not in a future state.
Immortality Through Legacy and Influence: Whitman suggests that individuals achieve immortality through their lasting impact on the world and their continued presence in the memories of others. He states, "The smallest sprout shows there is really no death, / And if ever there was it led forward life, and does not wait at the end to arrest it, / And ceas’d the moment life appear’d". This passage suggests that life continues to evolve and grow even after an individual's physical death, perpetuating itself through future generations.
Merging with the Cosmos: Whitman envisions death as a merging with the larger universe, a dissolution of individual identity into the vastness of the cosmos. He describes his own death as a scattering and merging with the elements, stating, "I bequeath myself to the dirt to grow from the grass I love, / If you want me again look for me under your boot-soles". This imagery suggests a return to the fundamental elements of nature and a merging with the universal life force.
Eternal Journey of the Soul: Whitman portrays the soul as embarking on an eternal journey, constantly evolving and expanding beyond the confines of the physical body. He states, "I tramp a perpetual journey", suggesting a continual process of growth and transformation. He also speaks of ascending to the "orchards of spheres" and encompassing "worlds and volumes of worlds" with his voice, indicating a boundless expansion of consciousness beyond the earthly realm.

In Song of Myself, Whitman redefines death not as an end but as a transformation and continuation of being. He celebrates the interconnectedness of life and death, suggesting that immortality is found not in a separate afterlife but in the everlasting cycle of existence, the enduring impact of one's life on the world, and the ultimate merging of the individual soul with the infinite cosmos.

Whitman's Portrayal of the Body

Whitman's Portrayal of the Body in "Song of Myself"

In Song of Myself, Walt Whitman presents a radical and celebratory view of the human body, challenging conventional notions of modesty and decorum. He embraces the body in its entirety, highlighting its physicality, sensuality, and connection to the natural world.

Here are some key aspects of Whitman's portrayal of the body:

The Body as Sacred: Whitman elevates the body to a sacred status, rejecting the idea that it is something to be ashamed of or hidden. He declares, "Divine am I inside and out, and I make holy whatever I touch or am touch'd from" and "The scent of these arm-pits aroma finer than prayer, / This head more than churches, bibles, and all the creeds". These bold statements challenge traditional religious views that often associate the body with sin and temptation. Instead, Whitman suggests that the body is a manifestation of the divine, worthy of reverence and celebration.
Celebration of Sensuality: Whitman revels in the body's sensual experiences, embracing physical pleasure and desire. He describes the "treacherous tip of me reaching and crowding" to experience the "flames and ether" of physical touch. He also uses vivid imagery to portray sexual encounters, stating, "Immodestly sliding the fellow-senses away, / They bribed to swap off with touch and go and graze at the edges of me". By openly acknowledging and celebrating these experiences, Whitman challenges societal taboos surrounding sexuality and affirms the body's natural desires.
The Body as a Source of Knowledge: Whitman suggests that the body is not just a physical vessel but also a source of knowledge and understanding. He emphasizes the importance of sensory experience, stating, "Seeing, hearing, feeling, are miracles, and each part and tag of me is a miracle". He also describes feeling the "soft jolts" of a hay wagon and hearing the "sound of the belch’d words of my voice loos’d to the eddies of the wind", indicating that the body is a conduit for experiencing and interpreting the world.
The Body as Connected to Nature: Whitman sees a profound connection between the human body and the natural world. He uses natural imagery to describe the body, comparing his blood to "milky stream pale strippings of my life!" and his brain to the "occult convolutions!" of a root. This connection is further emphasized in his descriptions of outdoor experiences, such as bathing naked in the river and feeling the wind on his skin.
The Body as a Representative of Humanity: Whitman presents his own body as a representative of all human bodies, embracing the diversity and commonality of the human experience. He catalogues various physical characteristics and bodily functions, stating, "Welcome is every organ and attribute of me, and of any man hearty and clean, / Not an inch nor a particle of an inch is vile, and none shall be less familiar than the rest". This inclusive approach suggests that all bodies are worthy of acceptance and respect, regardless of their differences.

Through his bold and unconventional portrayal of the body, Whitman challenges traditional norms and celebrates the physicality, sensuality, and inherent worth of the human form. He elevates the body to a position of reverence, suggesting that it is a source of beauty, pleasure, knowledge, and connection to the larger universe.

Key Events and Experiences in "Song of Myself"

In Song of Myself, Whitman recounts a wide range of personal, historical, and imaginative experiences that collectively represent the full scope of life. Here are some of the key events and experiences he recounts:

Personal Experiences

Whitman draws on his own life, sharing vivid memories of childhood, travel, and encounters with various people. He recounts simple, everyday moments such as lying in the grass, savoring the beauty of nature, and working on a farm. He also reflects on more intimate experiences, like his sensual interactions with lovers and his care for a runaway slave, all of which illustrate his deep connection to the world and its people.

Historical Events

Whitman integrates significant historical events into the poem, particularly the violence and devastation of the American Civil War. He recalls the massacre of Texan soldiers and describes battles, such as a sea skirmish from the 18th century, which he learned about from family stories. These historical references root his personal reflections in the larger historical context of his time.

Everyday Life in America

Whitman celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of American life in the mid-19th century, capturing scenes from various walks of life. He lists a range of professions, from butchers to blacksmiths, and describes the bustling urban environment with its crowded streets and busy commerce, as well as the peace and beauty of rural landscapes. These contrasts create a comprehensive portrait of life in America.

Imagined and Spiritual Experiences

Whitman’s imagination ventures beyond the physical world. He recounts mystical experiences where he feels himself merging with the cosmos, transcending time and space, and exploring distant realms such as the "orchards of spheres." He imagines traveling with meteors and experiencing the thoughts and emotions of others, further blurring the lines between self and other.

The Cycle of Life and Death

Throughout the poem, Whitman reflects on the inevitability of death, but he does so in a way that highlights its role in the larger cycle of life. He describes witnessing suicides, attending funerals, and observing the decay of bodies, but rather than viewing death as an end, he embraces it as part of the ongoing flow of life, where death nourishes new life and the soul continues its journey.

The Universality of Human Experience

Whitman celebrates the shared experiences of humanity, seeing commonality in all individuals regardless of social status, gender, or background. He calls for compassion and understanding, recognizing the inherent dignity of every person. His famous declaration, "not an inch nor a particle of an inch is vile," emphasizes his belief in the sanctity and interconnectedness of all human beings.

Through these diverse events and experiences, Whitman crafts a panoramic and inclusive portrait of human existence, inviting readers to join him in celebrating the beauty, complexity, and interconnectedness of life. The poem presents both the personal and the universal, capturing the full range of human experience and offering a profound meditation on self, society, and the natural world.

Whitman's Central Beliefs in "Song of Myself"

What are some of Whitman's central beliefs?

Throughout Song of Myself, Whitman articulates a set of core beliefs that shape his perspective on self, nature, humanity, and the universe. These beliefs, often presented in bold pronouncements and evocative imagery, challenge conventional thinking and offer a radical vision of human existence. Here are some of Whitman's central beliefs:

The Inherent Worth and Divinity of the Individual

Whitman champions the idea that every person is inherently valuable and possesses a spark of the divine. He states, "Divine am I inside and out, and I make holy whatever I touch or am touch'd from." This belief extends to all individuals, regardless of their background, social status, or perceived flaws. He celebrates the diversity of human bodies and experiences, declaring, "Not an inch nor a particle of an inch is vile, and none shall be less familiar than the rest."

The Interconnectedness of All Things

Whitman sees a profound connection between the self, nature, and the cosmos. He uses the symbol of grass to represent this interconnectedness, describing it as "the flag of my disposition" and "the handkerchief of the Lord," suggesting both personal and spiritual significance. He experiences a sense of unity with animals, the elements, and even celestial bodies, stating, "In all people I see myself, none more and not one a barley-corn less, / And the good or bad I say of myself I say of them."

The Importance of Sensory Experience and the Body

Whitman embraces the physical world and the body's role in experiencing and understanding it. He celebrates the senses, declaring, "Seeing, hearing, feeling, are miracles, and each part and tag of me is a miracle." He finds beauty and significance in everyday physical acts, like working on a farm, eating, and sexual intimacy. He elevates the body to a sacred status, rejecting the idea that it is something to be ashamed of or hidden.

The Embrace of Life in All Its Aspects

Whitman doesn't shy away from the difficult or unpleasant aspects of life. He confronts death, suffering, and violence head-on, incorporating them into his catalogues of human experience. He recounts a suicide, witnesses a brutal massacre, and describes the aftermath of a bloody sea battle. However, he doesn't dwell on negativity. He finds beauty and meaning even in decay and suffering, seeing them as integral parts of the cycle of existence.

The Continual Journey of Self-Discovery

Whitman sees life as a perpetual journey of growth, change, and expansion. He encourages readers to embrace new experiences, challenge their own beliefs, and continually strive for greater understanding. This journey is both physical, as seen in his descriptions of traveling across America, and spiritual, as he explores the depths of his own soul and the mysteries of the universe.

The Power of Democracy and Equality

As an American poet writing in the aftermath of the Civil War, Whitman deeply believed in the ideals of democracy and equality. He celebrates the common man and woman, elevating their experiences to the level of epic poetry. He calls for unity and inclusivity, embracing people from all walks of life and advocating for social justice.

The Acceptance of Time and Death

Whitman acknowledges the inevitability of death, but he doesn't fear it. He sees death as a natural part of the cycle of life, a transition to a new state of being. He states, "I pass death with the dying and birth with the new-wash'd babe, and am not contain'd between my hat and boots." This acceptance of mortality allows him to live fully in the present moment and embrace the beauty of each stage of life.

These beliefs, woven together through Whitman's powerful language and imagery, form the foundation of Song of Myself and offer a unique and enduring perspective on the human experience.

Timeline of Events in "Song of Myself"

It's impossible to construct a traditional chronological timeline from "Song of Myself" as the poem doesn't follow a linear narrative. Instead, it explores various experiences and reflections without strict temporal order. However, we can identify thematic clusters and arrange them to represent the poem's flow:

Part 1: Introduction and Declarations (Sections 1-3)

The speaker introduces themselves, celebrating their existence and connection to all things.
They declare their acceptance of all experiences, good and bad, and their belief in the inherent goodness of the universe.
The speaker rejects traditional notions of beginning and end, emphasizing the constant cycle of life and death.

Part 2: Sensory Experiences and Observations (Sections 4-15)

The speaker catalogues a vast array of sensory experiences, from the mundane to the profound.
They observe people from all walks of life, highlighting the diversity and interconnectedness of humanity.
This section emphasizes the speaker's deep empathy and ability to inhabit the experiences of others.

Part 3: Communion with Nature and Humanity (Sections 16-21)

The speaker declares their unity with all people and with nature.
They celebrate the beauty and power of the natural world, finding solace and wisdom in its cycles.
They embrace their own physicality and sensuality, finding divinity in the human body.

Part 4: Confronting Doubt and Mortality (Sections 22-30)

The speaker acknowledges the existence of doubt and suffering in the world.
They confront their own mortality, accepting death as a natural part of life.
They find comfort in the belief that all things are interconnected and that death is not the end.

Part 5: Embracing Contradictions and the Unknown (Sections 31-46)

The speaker embraces the inherent contradictions and paradoxes of life.
They celebrate the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges and find meaning in suffering.
They encourage their listeners to embrace the unknown and to find their own path in life.

Part 6: Final Exhortations and Legacy (Sections 47-52)

The speaker urges their listeners to be bold and to live their lives to the fullest.
They declare their belief in the power of love and compassion to transform the world.
The speaker leaves behind a legacy of hope and inspiration, promising to be a source of strength and renewal for generations to come.

Cast of Characters

The Speaker (Walt Whitman)

The primary voice of the poem, a persona embodying Whitman's philosophical and poetic vision. He acts as an observer, a celebrator, and a guide, taking the reader on a journey through various experiences and reflections.

The Reader

The implied audience of the poem, invited to participate in the speaker's journey and to engage with the ideas presented.

People from All Walks of Life

Workers: Butchers, blacksmiths, drivers, farmers, mechanics, etc.
Everyday People: Children, mothers, lovers, the sick, the dying, prisoners, etc.
Figures from History: Martyrs, heroes, soldiers, etc.

Nature

Grass: A symbol of life, death, and interconnectedness.
Animals: Horses, birds, insects, etc., representing the beauty and wisdom of the natural world.
The Sea: A powerful force symbolizing both life and death.
The Sky: A vast and mysterious realm representing the infinite possibilities of the universe.

God

A less-defined presence, seen as a force permeating all things. The speaker emphasizes personal experience and intuition over traditional religious dogma.

Death

A recurring figure, not as an endpoint but as a transformation and transition. The speaker embraces death as a natural part of the cycle of life.

Song of Myself: A Study Guide

Short-Answer Questions

How does the opening line of "Song of Myself" set the stage for Whitman's exploration of self?
Discuss the significance of the natural imagery in the poem's early stanzas.
What is Whitman's attitude towards death in "Song of Myself"? Explain using examples.
How does Whitman use catalogs (long lists) in "Song of Myself"? What is their effect?
Explain the significance of the "twenty-ninth bather" in section 11.
Describe Whitman's portrayal of work and workers in the poem.
How does Whitman address the concept of contradiction in section 51?
What is the meaning of Whitman's "barbaric yawp" in section 52?
How does Whitman position himself in relation to traditional religion and spirituality?
What is the overall message Whitman conveys about the human experience in "Song of Myself"?

Short-Answer Key

The line "I celebrate myself, and sing myself" establishes the poem's focus on the self and its experiences. The following line, "And what I assume you shall assume," invites the reader to share in this celebration, suggesting a shared humanity and connection between the poet and the reader.
Nature is presented as a source of inspiration, beauty, and truth. Images like the spear of summer grass, the fragrance of perfumes, and the feel of the atmosphere emphasize the speaker's deep connection with the natural world and its vital energy.
Whitman views death not as an end, but as a transition and a part of the continuous cycle of life. He states, "I hasten to inform him or her it is just as lucky to die, and I know it," emphasizing that death is as natural and essential as birth. He also suggests that the dead are not gone, but live on in the cycle of nature and within himself.
Whitman utilizes catalogs to encompass the vastness and diversity of American life. By listing various occupations, social classes, and experiences, he emphasizes the inclusivity of his "self" and celebrates the democratic spirit of the nation.
The "twenty-ninth bather" represents a liberated and independent woman who observes and desires the male bathers. Her presence challenges societal norms and expectations surrounding female sexuality and desire, highlighting Whitman's progressive views on gender and sexuality.
Whitman portrays work as an essential part of human experience and celebrates the dignity of all laborers. He highlights the skill, strength, and dedication of workers in various professions, from blacksmiths and butchers to farmers and carpenters, emphasizing the value of their contributions to society.
Whitman acknowledges his own contradictions, stating, "Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes)." This acceptance of contradiction reflects his belief in the complexity and multifaceted nature of the self and the world, rejecting the need for rigid consistency.
The "barbaric yawp" represents Whitman's unrestrained and powerful voice, expressing the untamed spirit of both himself and America. It is a primal cry that defies convention and embraces individuality and freedom of expression.
Whitman embraces a spiritual perspective that is rooted in nature and the human experience, but transcends traditional religious boundaries. He honors diverse religious traditions and acknowledges their value, while ultimately emphasizing a personal and universal spirituality that encompasses all.
Whitman's "Song of Myself" celebrates the interconnectedness of all things and the beauty and wonder of the human experience. He emphasizes the importance of individuality, the acceptance of both good and bad, the joy of the physical world, and the spiritual unity that binds all beings.

Essay Questions

Analyze Whitman's use of free verse in "Song of Myself." How does this form contribute to the poem's themes and overall effect?
Discuss the role of the senses in "Song of Myself." How does Whitman's emphasis on physical experience shape his understanding of self and the world?
Examine the theme of unity and interconnectedness in "Song of Myself." How does Whitman convey this concept through his language, imagery, and structure?
Analyze the ways in which "Song of Myself" can be read as a celebration of American democracy. Consider Whitman's portrayal of diverse individuals and experiences.
Discuss the poem's ending. What is the significance of Whitman's final image and message?

Glossary of Key Terms

Free Verse: Poetry that does not adhere to traditional rhyme schemes or metrical patterns.
Catalog: A long list of items, often used in literature to create a sense of abundance, diversity, or overwhelming force.
Transcendentalism: A philosophical and literary movement that emphasized the inherent goodness of humanity and the importance of intuition and experience over reason and tradition.
Democracy: A system of government where supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation typically involving periodic free and fair elections.
Individualism: A social theory favoring freedom of action for individuals over collective or state control.
Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.
Imagery: Visually descriptive or figurative language, especially in a literary work.
Self-Reliance: The concept of relying on one's own powers and resources rather than those of others.
Kosmos: The universe seen as a well-ordered whole.
Yawp: A loud, harsh cry.

Faqs

What is "Song of Myself" about?
1. Who is the speaker in "Song of Myself"?
The speaker is Walt Whitman himself, though he represents something larger than just his individual self. He embodies the spirit of the average American, celebrating the diversity and common humanity of all people. He is a "kosmos", encompassing multitudes within himself.

2. What is Whitman celebrating in this poem?
Whitman celebrates life in all its forms, embracing the beauty and wonder of the physical world and the human experience. He celebrates the individual, democracy, equality, and the interconnectedness of all things. He sees divinity not in churches or scriptures, but in the everyday occurrences and natural world.

3. What is the significance of the grass in the poem?
The grass is a central symbol in "Song of Myself", representing life, death, rebirth, and the cyclical nature of existence. Whitman sees the grass as a unifying force, growing everywhere regardless of social status or background. It also connects the living and the dead, growing over graves and signifying the continuation of life.

4. What is Whitman's attitude towards death?
Whitman doesn't fear death. He sees it as a natural part of life, a transition rather than an ending. He believes that the soul is immortal and that death is merely a shedding of the physical body. "I hasten to inform him or her it is just as lucky to die, and I know it."

5. How does Whitman portray the relationship between the body and the soul?
Whitman views the body and soul as equal and interconnected aspects of the self. He celebrates the physicality of the human body, its senses, desires and experiences, holding them as sacred as the soul. "I am the poet of the Body and I am the poet of the Soul."

6. What is Whitman's view of humanity?
Whitman embraces all of humanity, celebrating diversity and acknowledging the commonality that binds us. He sees worth in every individual, regardless of background, social standing, or moral character. He sees the potential for good and bad in everyone, refusing to judge or exclude.

7. What is the role of the reader in "Song of Myself"?
Whitman directly addresses the reader, inviting them to join him on a journey of self-discovery. He encourages readers to think for themselves, to experience the world directly, and to form their own conclusions rather than relying on the interpretations of others.

8. What does Whitman's "barbaric yawp" symbolize?
This phrase represents Whitman's bold, unrestrained voice, his celebration of individuality and freedom. It is a declaration of his presence and a challenge to societal norms and expectations. He embraces his wild, untamed spirit, inviting others to do the same.