Saks Walt Whitman is an American poet, journalist, essayist, and philosopher. He is best known for his poem “Leaves of Grass,” which was first published in 1855. He is also known for his work on the Transcendentalist movement, and his influence on American literature.
Early Life and Education
Walt Whitman was born in West Hills, New York, in 1819. He was the second of nine children in the Whitman family. His father was a carpenter, and his mother was a housekeeper. He received little formal education, but read extensively on his own. He also worked as a printer’s apprentice, a schoolteacher, and a journalist.
Career and Literary Works
In 1855, Whitman published his most famous work, Leaves of Grass. The collection of poems, which was self-published, was met with both acclaim and controversy. It was praised for its use of free verse and its exploration of themes such as democracy, sexuality, and death. The collection was also criticized for its frankness and its use of profanity.
In the years following the publication of Leaves of Grass, Whitman continued to write poetry and essays. He also became a regular contributor to a variety of newspapers and magazines. He wrote for both mainstream and radical publications, and his work was often critical of the government and its policies.
Legacy
Walt Whitman is widely regarded as one of the most influential poets in American history. His work has been studied and analyzed by generations of scholars, and he is often credited with being a major influence on the development of modern American literature. He is also considered to be a major figure in the Transcendentalist movement.
Influence on Other Writers
Whitman’s work had a profound influence on many of the writers and poets who followed him. Notable figures who have cited Whitman as an influence include T.S. Eliot, Robert Frost, and Allen Ginsberg. His work also inspired generations of writers and thinkers who followed, including Ezra Pound, Langston Hughes, and W.E.B. Du Bois.
Influence on American Culture
Whitman’s work had a significant influence on American culture. His work has been studied in schools and universities across the country, and his poetry has been adapted into song and film. He is also credited with helping to shape American attitudes toward democracy and individualism.
Awards and Recognition
- 1955: The Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site was established in New York.
- 1985: The United States Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp in honor of Whitman.
- 1995: The Walt Whitman Award was established by the Poetry Society of America.
Walt Whitman is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in American literature. His work has had a lasting impact on both literature and culture, and his influence can be seen in the work of countless writers and thinkers who followed him.