Though the exact answer remains contested and disputed, it is generally accepted that Walt Whitman wrote two major works in his lifetime: Leaves of Grass in 1855 and Two Rivulets in 1865. The former is a milestone of American literature, cementing Whitman’s place among the great poets. The latter, informed by his travels and spiritual journey, is considered to be one of his least known, but equally important works.
In addition to the two full-length works, Whitman wrote several smaller pieces and poems that appeared in journals, magazines, and various periodicals throughout his life. A deep dive into archival and digitized materials reveal the true breadth of his literary production. Since the mid 19th century, various editions of Leaves of Grass are made available in print and online, as well as in audio recordings. His poems have proven to be timeless, often being quoted, adapted or remade into works of art and poetry by other literary figures.
Though not a prolific writer by comparison to others, Walt Whitman left an indelible mark on American Literary canon. He was the first American poet to experiment with ever-changing and evolving linguistic techniques in his works, a practice mostly unheard of in the mid 19th century. He also had a unique and progressive vision for America, including issues such as equality of the sexes, racial harmony and self-actualization – ideas way ahead of their time. As the result, his works remain timely and relevant to generations of readers.
Like any other works of art, Whitman’s works have experienced a great deal of scrutiny and controversy over the years. Due to its explicit mention of same-sex love and interracial relationships, Leaves of Grass was controversially banned and censored from libraries, bookstores and colleges – though opinions about the poem have improved in recent years. Two Rivulets, on the other hand, focused on religious and spiritual viewpoints, more closely aligned with the traditional norms of the period.
Despite ongoing debates about the merits of his works, Whitman’s influence on American literary tradition has been incomparable. His defining work, Leaves of Grass, has earned him a place among America’s greatest poets and has been cited as an influence on many other important authors. Indeed, it is not an understatement to say that Whitman’s legacy will continue to reverberate through American literature and culture for years to come.
Considered Notable Works
Some of the most significant books written by Whitman have become highly acclaimed and some have even become popular references in modern culture. Walter Edgarton’s The Writings of Walt Whitman, which was first published in the year 1867, contained many of Whitman’s best known poems, such as “The Din of Volumes” and “Whitman’s Elegy for Lincoln”. Two Rivulets, published in the year 1865, contained poems such as “You Felt Your Soul Enlarg’d” and “The Swimmer”. In 1871, publisher David McKay issued a four-volume edition of Leaves of Grass, containing all of Whitman’s original work up to that time.
The popular notion is that Leaves of Grass was Whitman’s only full-length, published work, but this has been proven to be wrong. Through archival research, thousands of additional works, most of which remained incomplete, have been attributed to Whitman posthumously by various scholars and editors. Most of these works have seen limited or no publication, as they were discovered after Whitman’s death and have remained largely unknown to the public.
One of the most notable works attributed to Whitman is his recently discovered novella called Life and Adventures of Jack Engle, which was suggested to be partly autobiographical. The novella, discovered in the early 21st century, and the various other works attributed to Whitman, have shown that Whitman was an even more prolific writer than was previously believed.
Walt Whitman in Popular Culture
Whitman’s influence reaches far beyond the literary world and his works have been cited and used in other mediums such as film and music. As one of the great poets of American literature, Whitman’s work has been adapted into film, television and radio shows. For example, in the 2018 film “The Favourite”, the main character cites a poem from Leaves of Grass in one of the scenes. His work has also been used in various songs and musical productions, such as “Sweet Walt Whitman”, a musical that was produced at the 2010 Edinburgh Fringe, and the 2017 Lil Uzi Vert song “Mood” which samples a part of his poem “The Apparitions”.
In addition to this, his works have been cited, appropriated and referenced by many contemporary writers, scholars and bloggers, most famously novelist Toni Morrison, who said of the poem “Song of Myself”: “…of no other poem have I been so frequently and meaningfully reminded through the years”.
Contemporary Reception of Walt Whitman
It could be said that his works remain as relevant today as they did when first published, with many contemporary readers and critics noting his prescience and vision of American society. His insights on religion, politics, and morality, first published in the mid 19th century, touch on questions about modern life with striking specificity.
Whitman’s influence can be seen in many aspects of modern American culture, from its politics and social norms to its works of art and books. Indeed, Leaves of Grass is considered to be one of the most important works of American literature, and one of Whitman’s greatest accomplishments.
The reception of his works is far-reaching and his influence can be seen in various mediums. Whitman’s works have been embraced by literary and nonliterary communities alike, as evidenced by his frequent citation and incorporation in other works of art. He is perhaps more popular today than ever before, having been included in the Library of America editions of American literature and celebrated by modern bookworms.
Political and Social Impact of Walt Whitman
Perhaps most impressive of all is the impact Whitman has had on the political and social landscape of the United States. He was one of the first to advocate strongly for equality, regardless of race and gender. His poem “Leaves of Grass” was a rallying cry for the abolition of slavery, and his ideas on freedom and justice can be seen in various civil rights movements to this day. He was a champion of progressive political thought, and his ideas sparked a wide range of debates on civil rights and politics.
In fact, some of the most iconic figures in American history have cited Walt Whitman’s works as inspirations for their own works and political movements. The likes of Martin Luther King, Jr., Ralph Waldo Emerson and Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and Franklin D. Roosevelt all included quotes from Whitman in their speeches. It could be argued then, that Whitman’s impact on the political landscape has been both enduring and far-reaching.
Whitman’s contribution to the American landscape was profound and controversial, as he re-envisioned the possibilities of democracy and freedom, as well as the rights of immigrants and disenfranchised individuals. Many who read his works walk away with a new perspective and appreciation of the American Dream. His words and works still have the power to educate, entertain, and challenge.
Legacy of Walt Whitman
Whitman’s legacy remains strong in the literary world, with his works being studied and adapted in various schools across the nation. Whitman’s work is celebrated in various cities throughout the country and there are various monuments and places of interest dedicated to him. In 2006, the United States Postal Service released a special edition postage stamp, as part of their literary Great Americans series, featuring Whitman’s portrait. On July 29, 2011, Whitman’s 200th birthday was commemorated with celebrations in various cities, including a ceremony in his birthplace of Huntington, New York.
Moreover, Every May 31, the American poet’s birthday has been noted as the National Poetry Day. Each year, different cities across the United States organize a variety of events to honor Whitman and his works. From street festivals to educational seminars, the day celebrates and commemorates the life and work of the great American poet.
The memory of Walt Whitman is still alive and well, hundreds of years after his works were first published. With his works still widely read and discussed, Walt Whitman has left a lasting impact and an indelible mark on American culture that will no doubt be remembered for years to come.
