Exploring Nature in Whitman’s Poetry
Whitman is renowned for his passionate exploration of nature in his poems. In Leaves of Grass, Whitman seeks to reveal how nature is a powerful force which can shape, influence, and interact with the soul of humanity. He radiates nature as a powerful and potential source of inspiration, through an evocative and reflective tone. This is best demonstrated in “Out of the Cradle Endlessly Rocking”, which paints a deep poetic picture of nature and the spiritual journey it can take us on.
The poem paints a vivid picture of nature’s power and its captivating effect, and the ability for one to lose themselves within its restrained energy. This is depicted in Whitman’s use of a bird singing by the edge of the sea; metaphorically, a bird represents our soul of humanity, singing for a greater understanding of and connection with nature. Through his description of this bird, Whitman expresses his belief that nature holds the potential to connect with the most profound, emotive levels of the soul.
Upon examination, it is clear that Whitman most commonly uses imagery to depict nature, as seen in “Out of the Cradle Endlessly Rocking” in which he creates many naturalistic images with his vivid and detailed descriptions. He frequently uses the metaphor of the open road to represent nature, providing readers with the feeling of unlimited exploration. He also employs animal imagery which serves to provide readers with a symbolic connection between the animals in nature and their own perceptions of the world and their human emotions.
Similarly, in Whitman’s “Song of Joys”, the power of nature and its potential for spiritual enlightenment is portrayed throughout the poem. By including vivid descriptions of humans walking to and from nature’s greatness, an infatuation with the grand vistas of nature is highlighted in the poem. Through Whitman’s positive and optimistic outlook on nature, it is revealed that nature is a powerful force which unites us all, as seen in his description of “the delicate paths of the sea”.
Detailed and concrete atmospheric scenes are crafted through Whitman’s use of simple and unaffected language. This is particularly prevalent in “Song of the Open Road”, where he uses the open road to represent nature and its power over humanity. The poem is suggestive of a journey full of potential, with road being symbolic of the potential for individual spiritual development. His emphasis on individuality and exploration allows one to explore different aspects of nature, whether it is sun, rain, sleet or snow, Whitman captures them all, while also conveying the excitement and power of destiny.
Metaphorical Representations
Whilst Whitman’s use of imagery and symbols to represent nature is common, his use of nature metaphors is just as powerful. This is best understood in his “Song of the Broad-Axe”, which is constructed around the metaphor of a broad-axe as a tool for spiritual and emotional maturation. The broad-axe is symbolic of a journey of wisdom from youth to adulthood and makes the connection between the physical and spiritual world. By connecting the physical tool of an axe with the spiritual connection to nature, Whitman allows his readers to explore the sensation of ‘awakening’ and how nature plays an important role in this journey.
In “Song of the Universal”, it is clear that Whitman personifies nature by exploring the use of personas and addressing intelligence as a key factor in this respect. By establishing a loving relationship between humanity and nature, Whitman wishes to emphasise that nature is a nurturing and powerful force that is capable of providence throughout life’s hardships. Through his description of “a being, impersonal, identical, limitless”, Whitman reveals that nature is a guardian angel throughout life’s journey, providing necessary guidance when it is needed.
Elemental Descriptions
Whitman uses elemental language to explore the strength and emotion of nature’s effects on society and its connection to the individual. In “To You”, Whitman reveals how nature can influence an individual’s spirit with its mighty power, through the use of elemental language. By addressing the natural elements of wind, water, fire and earth, Whitman reveals that nature is an inescapable force which descends to “wash you, scatter you, and [to] break you”, evoking a sense of fear in the reader. Again, we can see the spiritual awakening achieved through nature, and Whitman’s poetic attempt to understand it.
Furthermore, in “Song of the Broad-Axe”, Whitman reveals his exploration of the power of nature over humankind. Through the use of elemental descriptions, he conveys the mighty, overbearing power of nature which often guides and controls, as seen in his description of the “thunder-cloud’s voice”, depiction a metaphorical acceptance of nature’s strength over humanity.
The powerful energy and emotion of the environment can be seen in Whitman’s “Song of Myself”. By combining references to natural elements such as wind and water with a peaceful serenity, Whitman compliments an appreciation of nature’s power and offers a lyrical message of peace and understanding. A connection between the environment and the soul of humanity can be seen, as Whitman’s speaks with a sense of understanding and a realisation that nature can influence our inner lives as much as our physical lives.
The Balance of Nature
Examining Whitman’s poetry, it is clear that he recognises the balance that exists within nature and its effects on society, seen in his “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry”. The poem’s narrator is presented as being within and at one with nature, experiencing and reflecting the spiritual significance of nature, and the rhythmic balance between the two. In “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry”, Whitman conveys a sense of wonder and an understanding of the natural order of the environment; he addresses the theme of balance not just between humans and the environment, but between the higher force and destiny. He reveals this in his description of the “enfolding” of the sun and the stars, describing the nature of the universe, hinting that everything is, ultimately, one.
Nature, Morality and Religion
Throughout his poetry, Whitman demonstrates a close association between nature, morality and religion, culminating in a particularly strong emphasis on religion. This is demonstrated in “When I heard the Learn’d Astronomer”, in which Whitman speaks of the connection between nature and his personal relationship with the divine. Conveying a spiritual awakening through nature’s power, Whitman presents nature as something greater than its physical form, a force that takes on divine dimensions.
The religious connotations are further highlighted in “Song of the Poets”, in which Whitman compares the power of nature of a spiritual force. He speaks of how Nature is God’s “conscience and justice”, urging humans to develop their own moral virtues. By considering nature a true moral force and a vital part of religion, Whitman creates a meaningful connection between spirituality, society and the environment.
Nature as a Guide and Teacher
It is clear that in Whitman’s poetry, Nature is seen as a powerful force which offers guidance and directions. In “So Long!” Whitman offers a stunning depiction of the calming and restorative power of nature, highlighting its potential to heal, energize and guide. By portraying Nature as a friend and ally, Whitman conveys an understanding of its significance and power to shape the soul of humanity.
The ability for Nature to act as a teacher is seen in “Song of Myself”. By introducing Nature as a gateway to a greater understanding, Whitman creates a message of positivity and strength. He recognises Nature’s capacity to soothe and comfort the soul, and its potential to provide advice and direction.
Conclusion
Through Whitman’s poetic works, it is clear that nature plays an influential role in his poetry as a powerful source of inspiration and a reminder of imminent mortality. Expressing nature in a spiritual and metaphysical sense, Whitman captivates the reader through his use of vivid imagery, imagery which is meant to evoke powerful emotions and thought-provoking ideas. He makes a stronger connection between nature and religion, revealing that Nature is indeed a spiritual force which unites us all. By exploring the power of nature, Whitman offers readers a greater appreciation for the environment and a spiritual gateway through which to explore ourselves.
