Did Walt Whitman know Abraham Lincoln? Walt Whitman, the famous American poet and essayist, was likely familiar with Lincoln through his writings and speeches, but there is no evidence to suggest they ever interacted. However, Whitman, who was a staunch Union supporter and admirer of Lincoln, did write several poems inspired by the President and his leadership.
Whitman was born in 1819, only a few years after Lincoln, and both men were contemporary figures of their time. Whitman was a New Yorker living and working in Washington DC during the Civil War and he was inspired by the Union Army’s inspiring stand against the Confederacy. Although he was never in the military, Whitman was an active reporter for many newspapers and magazines and often travelled between New York and DC collecting stories about the soldiers, their struggles, and the war effort.
Whitman was also an influential poet whose unique uses of language and syntax made his writing stand out from his contemporaries. His free verse style was innovative and is still employed by poets today. He wrote extensively of the Civil War and his own experiences of it in his most famous works, including Leaves of Grass and the “Drum Taps” poems.
It is clear that he had admiration and respect for Lincoln. In a letter to his mother, he wrote, “I have seen the President frequently — he is a great man and greatly to be admired, full of language, manner and unusual power. So far as I can judge he is entirely self-made, is candid, enthusiastic, and earnest, with an infinite fund of humor and wit.” Whitman also wrote a poem titled “O Captain! My Captain!” that was inspired by the assassination of Lincoln in 1865. The poem celebrates Lincoln’s leadership and mourns the loss of a great leader.
Walt Whitman’s Writing
Whitman had a unique writing style that was heavily impacted by the events of the Civil War and by his admiration for leaders like Lincoln. He was known for his long, winding sentences that expressed his ideas in ways that were unprecedented at the time. He also included vivid imagery when describing events and characters and often expressed his emotions in his writing. All of these elements make Whitman’s writing unmistakable and contribute to his enduring influence in the literary world.
For example, Whitman’s “O Captain! My Captain!” poem is a prime example of his stylistic flair. He begins the poem with a Homeric simile, comparing the tragedy of Lincoln’s death to a ship returning home without its captain. He goes on to use powerful adjectives, such as “fearful,” and vivid descriptions of pain and anguish to further illustrate his point. Ultimately, Whitman manages to encapsulate the feeling of national mourning in his poem and it is still seen as one of his most memorable works.
Legacy and Impact
Walt Whitman and Abraham Lincoln are both remembered for their contributions to American society, but it is clear that one had an immense impact on the other. Though there is no evidence that Whitman and Lincoln interacted, it is clear that the admiration was mutual.
Whitman’s admiration for Lincoln and other Union military heroes was evident through his writing and it has had a lasting impact. Though Lincoln’s life has been subjected to countless biographies, Whitman’s poetry and prose have provided a unique insight into the President’s character and his leadership during one of the most difficult times in American history.
Interpretation of Work
The interpretation of Whitman’s work is highly subjective and can be affected by the reader’s individual perspective. For some, Whitman’s poetry is seen as an idealized depiction of an America that never was, while for others, it is a reminder of the deep sorrow of a Civil War that left an indelible mark on American history.
In the latter case, Whitman’s captivating writing style and his admiration for Abraham Lincoln can offer the reader a unique glimpse into the short-lived relationship between the poet and the leader. Nevertheless, it is clear that their respective legacies remain intertwined and their impact on American history will undoubtedly be remembered.
Other Influences and Works
Though Whitman’s admiration of Lincoln was evident in his later works, it is important to note that Whitman was not only influenced by the President’s legacy. Whitman drew inspiration from many different sources throughout his life, such as the classics and contemporary authors, as well as the everyday objects he encountered.
As such, Whitman’s works were a synthesis of his various influences and not just tributes to individual figures, such as Lincoln. In addition to “O Captain! My Captain!” and other Civil War-inspired poems, Whitman wrote extensively about nature, love, religion, and personal relationships. These varied topics allowed Whitman to express his creative range and personal feelings, giving readers an insight into his unique sensibilities.
Influence Today
It is clear that Whitman’s influence has had a lasting impact on the world of literature, but it is also important to recognize that his works continue to inspire today. Whitman’s celebration of freedom, compassion, and reverence of nature still resonates with many readers. His writings are timeless and serve as a reminder of life’s beauty and fragility.
Whitman’s admiration of Abraham Lincoln is also remembered today, particularly through his poem “O Captain! My Captain!” Every year, the poem is recited at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, as a way to commemorate the President’s legacy and honor his memory. Furthermore, Whitman’s work continues to remind readers of the power of literature to make a political statement and express profound emotions.
Conclusion
The relationship between Walt Whitman and Abraham Lincoln remains a mystery, but their common devotion to their country and appreciation for the finer things in life clearly drew them together. Though only Whitman’s writings remain to document their admiration, the legacy of their works is just as powerful today as it was during their time. As long as they are remembered, their influence will remain alive.
