Whitman's poetry is beautiful, but a little obscure. I feel like it strays into the transcendental, seeing nature as spiritual and seeing self as almost one with nature. It also tends toward the sensual and even the sexual at times. He was pushing boundaries and I can imagine it still causes some discomfort. He definitely sees life as a cycle, with death making provision for new life.
Random favorite stanzas:
Loafe with me on the grass, loose the stop from your throat,
Not words, not music or rhyme I want, not custom or lecture, not even the best,
Only the lull I like, the hum of your vavled voice.
(lines 83-86)
Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged,
Missing me one place search another,
I stop somewhere, waiting for you.
(lines1343-1345)
I really enjoy these snatches of his poetry. He certainly has beautiful style, I just wish he didn't push the boundaries quite so much. It causes me more than a little discomfort. :P
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