Walt Whitman: A glorious collection from one of America's best-loved and controversial poets

This collection is the ideal introduction to the poetry of Walt Whitman, who was celebrated during his lifetime and is widely considered to be the father of free verse. He worked in hospitals during the American Civil War and his funeral in 1892 was a public event.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

This concise collection serves as an excellent introduction to the remarkable poetry of Walt Whitman. Widely regarded as one of the greatest poets of all time, Whitman's influence has been profound both during his lifetime and in the years since his passing. During the American Civil War, he dedicated himself to caring for wounded soldiers in hospitals, earning him immense respect and admiration. His funeral in 1892 was a public spectacle, reflecting the widespread regard he held in society. Renowned modernist poet Ezra Pound once described Whitman as "America's poet...he is America."

Leaves of Grass, with its overt sexual imagery and celebration of sensual pleasures, stands as a highly controversial work. On the other hand, Captain, oh my captain, immortalized in the film Dead Poets Society, has become an iconic representation of Whitman's poetic prowess. This short collection offers a glimpse into the diverse range of Whitman's poetic expressions.

Born in 1819, Whitman emerged as a prominent figure in the literary world during the mid-19th century. He is widely celebrated as the father of free verse, a form of poetry that abandons traditional rhyme and meter patterns. Whitman's poetic style was characterized by his use of colloquial language, his emphasis on the individual voice, and his celebration of the natural world.

Throughout his career, Whitman published numerous collections of poetry, including Leaves of Grass, which was first published in 1855. The book was met with both critical acclaim and controversy, with some critics accusing it of being obscene and others praising its boldness and honesty. Despite the controversy, Leaves of Grass has become one of the most celebrated and influential works of American literature.

In addition to his poetry, Whitman was also a passionate advocate for social justice and human rights. During the American Civil War, he worked as a nurse in hospitals caring for wounded soldiers, earning him immense respect and admiration. His commitment to serving others and his belief in the power of poetry to inspire change made him a beloved figure in American culture.

Whitman's influence extends beyond his poetry. He was a prominent figure in the American literary scene, and his ideas and beliefs influenced many other writers and artists. His celebration of the individual and his belief in the power of the human spirit have inspired generations of artists and thinkers.

In conclusion, Walt Whitman's poetry is a testament to his remarkable talent and his profound impact on American literature and culture. This short collection provides an excellent introduction to his diverse range of poetic expressions, from the controversial Leaves of Grass to the iconic Captain, oh my captain. Whitman's legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and thinkers around the world, and his poetry remains a vital part of the American literary canon.

Weight: 122g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399614139