Overview
Walt Whitman was an American poet, essayist and journalist widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in American Literature. He is widely celebrated for his works such as Leaves of Grass and Song of Myself. But what many don’t know is where he died. In this article, the reader will be informed about where Walt Whitman died, the events leading up to his death, and the people he surrounded himself with in his final days.
Early Life & Creative Endeavors
Walt Whitman was born in 1819 in Long Island, New York. He spent most of his childhood in Brooklyn. After a basic education, he worked in various manual labor jobs, continuing to write in his free time. He first published his works in 1855, including the widely acclaimed ‘Leaves of Grass’, the collection that cemented his place in American literature.
Throughout his life, Walt Whitman was a transcendentalist, and he highlighted his democratic views not just in his writing, but in his actions as well. He was passionate about free love, civil rights, and progressive politics. He even wrote sympathetic articles in defense of Abraham Lincoln, who he described as being of great moral courage.
Civil War & Health Decline
When the American Civil War began in 1861, Walt Whitman was eager to serve and his writing shifted from pastoral musings of life to commentary on the human cost of the war and its aftermath. He joined a regiment of volunteers in early 1862 and served as a nurse for wounded soldiers, drawing tremendous respect for his dedication.
After his return from the war in 1864, Walt Whitman left for Washington D.C. where he worked as a clerk at the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Shortly after, his health began to deteriorate and he eventually contracted a severe form of diphtheria which left him bed-ridden for almost a year. He resorted to various treatments in search of a cure, but his health kept deteriorating.
Final Days
Walt Whitman’s health took a drastic turn for the worse in the spring of 1891 and he moved back to Camden, New Jersey to be close to his brother George, whose home he lived in for the rest of his life. During his last days, Walt was surrounded by friends, who provided support and companionship. These included Horace Traubel, Thomas Harned, Anne Gilchrist and William Sloane Kennedy, who was an admirer of his work and helped him with various chores and tasks.
On March 26th, 1892, Walt Whitman passed away in the bedroom of his brother’s home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Legacy
Shortly after his death in 1892, there were two memorial services held in his honor in the city of Washington D.C. and in Camden. He was later buried in a tomb in Camden, which still stands today and is referred to as ‘The Tombs’.
Walt Whitman is remembered as one of America’s most distinctive names in poetry and literature, as his classic works remain some of the most iconic to this day. His work is often deemed “ahead of its time” and has been cited by others as major influence to their own works.
Influence on the Arts
Walt Whitman has had a profound influence on many in the world of literature, music, and theatre- from Bob Dylan to Tennessee Williams. His most famous poem, ‘Song of Myself’ has been adapted into plays, musicals and operas. His poetry often found its way into songs, further attesting to Whitman’s passionate and revolutionary style being ahead of its time.
Ultimately, Walt Whitman’s great mastery of words and texture touched not only poetry and literature, but music as well- creating a lasting legacy in the arts.
Continuous Influence
The impact that Walt Whitman’s work has had over the years cannot be overstated. Several of his works have been co-opted in advertising campaigns and media, used to convey certain emotions or messages. His political opinions in his writings were also held closely to by civil movements, most notably in the civil rights era.
In addition to the continuous influence of his works, Walt Whitman’s life and experiences are also of great interest to many. This has led to a revival in interest in learning about his life, which mostly centers around his final days in Camden.
Camden Culture
Walt Whitman spent the last years of his life in Camden, New Jersey. His arrival in the area revitalized the city’s culture and celebrations, creating a renewed interest in literature, art and other forms of creativity. Camden was once an industrial city, but the move to Camden by Whitman is credited by many as a turning point in its culture and the appreciation of the arts.
Later, the city erected a statue in the poet’s honor and several streets were named after him. In addition, in Camden Memorial Park, there is a personal tomb belonging to Whitman, where his remains were ultimately moved and interned. This memorial park is what is referred to as “The Tombs” and is a popular destination for visitors looking to pay respects to Walt Whitman.
Walt Whitman Celebration
In honor of Walt Whitman’s huge influence and impact, annually in May, when he passed away, there is a Walt Whitman Celebration in the city of Camden, New Jersey. The celebration is touted for its “creative cultural facet of Camden that posthumously honors the all-encompassing greatness of Walt Whitman”. The day long event includes presentations and performances from writers, poets, and performing artists; each in tribute to the enduring impact Whitman has made in the world of literature, culture, and the performing arts.
The city of Camden continues to be a destination for many of Whitman’s admirers, attracts those attracted to its thriving creative atmosphere, and educates visitors in the history of the iconic poet.
Evolution of Poetry
Walt Whitman revolutionized the classic form of poetry to provide a refreshing and more accessible approach. His works moved away from the traditional patterns of rhyme, focus on metaphor and allegory, and transcend boundaries while speaking to the reader on a personal level.
The language in his works helped set the stage for modern poetry and has inspired many poets and authors alive today in their own discoveries and expressions. Furthermore, his contribution to the American literary scene is beyond compare and many references for modern poetry are drawn from Walt’s works.
Long-Lasting Legacy
Walt Whitman’s legacy is strong, ever-present and cannot be forgotten in the context of American literature and history. His life’s work will always be used as an example of a passionate artist and will continue to educate and inspire many more generations. He is a powerful example of how much a single person can do to shape and define a culture with his writings and actions.
Walt Whitman’s words will continue to be read and discussed for generations to come, and his influence on American culture, politics, and literature will continue to be felt long after his death.
