Close Reading; Walt Whitman's Song of Myself

Close Reading; Walt Whitman's Song of Myself

Walt Whitman transmitted the underlying theme of the Transcendental Movement that nature is part of humans and that people have knowledge about themselves that transcends their surroundings. This effort successfully dispelled racism, segregationist, and slavery by pointing out that all are human and will return to the natural world in Song of Myself. Whitman takes a stance against these beliefs. The term identity appears multiple times and emerges as the overarching topic. Ultimately, one's identity is made up of good and poor characteristics, which are equally significant. An individual's identity, for example, can affect how they view others. One must develop their own identity while simultaneously respecting the uniqueness of others around them.

Section 1 and 2 argue that differences in appearance should not be a source of strife. Even if a person has a strong sense of self-identity, they must live in harmony with those around them. Whitman considers three primary aspects of one's identity in poetry and prose. He was drawn to the Transcendentalist theory of oversoul advocated by the American Transcendent movement. He says that the world should be presented with a conventional picture of events if there are no personal interests involved. Due to the extensive spectrum of personality traits expressed by people from different cultures, many other ethical systems can be traced back to one common ancestor throughout human history. As long as readers adopt a oneness mindset, they can all evaluate content from the same perspective. Individual identities may dissolve if this realization is reached.

In creating Sections 1 and 2, Walt Whitman incorporated various literary techniques. Symbolism as the use of nature and oneself as a symbol of governance and life appears in the author's presentation of the eyewitnesses and the store's shelves overflowing with perfume. The author's worldview must also be taken into account. A person's assertion of individuality, on the other hand, excludes them from community cohesion participation. Aside from conveying thoughts that would make them stand out from the rest of the world, poetry is a unique medium in these sections. It has to rely on the feelings and anxieties as the author's only recourse. A wide range of religious beliefs is included in the areas through symbolism. Others express themselves from a political perspective, while others express themselves from a social perspective. As a result, it is imperative to get in touch with the intended audience. Poets can communicate their thoughts and feelings through their writing.

Throughout Sections 1 and 2, there are allusions to the American Civil War and the waning national pride of the United States of America. Whitman creates their individuality, and they distance themselves from society. The scent permeates houses and rooms with its aroma. Perfumes serve as a visual indicator of the presence of others in this situation. At times, Whitman is tempted by the impact of others on him. However, the author cares more about preserving their unique identity. As a person, it is sometimes necessary to put one's feelings ahead of others. Because of their ethnicity or national background, individuals in society may be biased against them. For a person to remain strong, they must discover the attributes that tie them together with their peers. Through his use of the five senses, Whitman reveals his joy. All of our five senses of perception are based on these five senses: taste, sound, smell, touch, and sight. According to him, the simple act of breathing produces a sense of well-being. The author gradually teaches the reader about the value of each poetry component as it is introduced one at a time.

Walt Whitman makes the case in Sections 1 and 2 for living in harmony with nature to maintain the natural cycle of life. Even though Whitman mentions death in the verse, he depicts it as a part of life that never ends rather than as something that returns to the ground from which we came. As a person and as a nation, Transcendentalists thought that they had great power. Whitman's Sections 1 and 2 are full of references to the individual's brightness when it comes to beauty. The democratic nation depicted in the sections has many diverse citizens, but they are all equal members of that nation, despite their differences. In this composition, the grass is used as a metaphor for life. Whitman's work clarifies that he sees the world in various ways. He does not want readers to fully subscribe to his message because the concept of identity is so broad, so it is unclear what he is trying to convey. For example, many people would instead thank God, their loved ones, and friends for their assistance. This method allows readers to experience the world's treasures without making the laborious journey down the mountainside. When it comes to appreciating the wonders of nature, Whitman is a true hero. It is evident when he goes from a human to a natural situation. It is common for people to prioritize the most important things to them. 

Work Cited

Whitman, Walt. Song of Myself. Courier Corporation, 2012.