Whitmans Leaves of Grass: Democratic Themes Essay -- Leaves of Grass

Leaves of Grass Democratic Themes When I Heard the Learnd Astronomer I Hear the States Singing In his forgo to Leaves of Grass, Whitman states, The linked States themselves are essentially the greatest poem. Whitman was the ultimate Transcendentalist/ Romantic. He united democratic themes and subject matter with free verse form. In Leaves of Grass, Whitman celebrates unity of all life and people. He embraces miscellany of geography, culture, work, sexuality, and beliefs. Whitmans relate solidifies American dreams of independence, freedom, and fulfillment, and transforms them for larger spiritual meaning. Whitman value hard work and creation humble and non-egotistical. His ideals are things such as good health, soul, and the love of nature. Whitman expresses his festivity of working class democracy through the varied carols of men and women who handle pride in their occupations in the poem I Hear America Singing. For example, he writes I hear America singing, the varied ca rols I hear, Those of mechanics, each one singing his as it should be blithe and strong, &nbs... ... United States themselves are essentially the greatest poem, I believe he meant that the diversity of geography, culture, beliefs and work all combine to create a wonderful country. Whitmans subject matter and style tie together to reflect his values of a working class democracy, humbleness and the enjoyment of life. Whitmans concern has solidified American dreams (of independence, freedom, and fulfillment) and transcends, transforms them for a larger spiritual meaning.