Introduction
Traveling with Walt Whitman is a unique journey that cannot be matched. There are so many things to see and do, so many places to explore and each experience can be completely different. Walt Whitman not only wrote beautiful poems, he was an avid traveler, a tireless explorer and a masterful storyteller. For those who are looking for something different and exciting, a trip with Walt Whitman promises to be deeply rewarding.
Background
Walt Whitman was born in West Hills, Long Island, New York in 1819. He did venture out to places outside of the Eastern Seaboard, but never strayed too far. Whitman traveled along the eastern states of Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. He even wound his way into the American Midwest, Arkansas and Louisiana. Located in his travels were iconic spots like Niagara Falls, Alexandria, St Louis, and Kansas City. Despite his humble means, Whitman had an insatiable thirst for exploration.
Interesting Facts
The poet- activist was no stranger to scenic vistas, riverscapes and open roads. He would often travel with just his writing journal, pencil, and a few other essential belongings. In fact, Whitman explains in one journal entry that he was on a permanent mission to discover the secret beauty of America. For Whitman, the journey was essential for his poetry, the great life journey he wanted to experience. A journey that excited him, from what he called the beginning of true and real love.
Different perspectives
Whitman’s travels are also reflective of his spiritual journey. He used his excursions to reconnect with nature and to reflect on his inner being. Whitman also believed that by traveling and perceiving the marvels of the world, he could gain a greater understanding and appreciation of life. He once wrote in his journal, “If the roadway and the path are sometimes smoother and sometimes rougher, the traveler needs have but patience, it will all right itself soon enough,” a sentiment that speaks volumes to the beauty of his journeys around America.
Sights and Sounds
A Whitman adventure would be filled with sights and sounds that would spark even the most jaded of travelers. He not only wanted to observe, but also wanted to feel the light upon his skin, the water from the seas and streams, the freshness of the air, and the sun rise, which he claims is the loveliest he had seen in the entire width and breadth of the country. Whitman’s writings were also filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of the places he had visited. His acute observations about all the wonderful aspects of his journey were something he incorporated into his writing.
Unique People
The unique people he encountered would also fill his writings. He had a knack for making acquaintances and starting conversations wherever he went. Whitman recounts his encounters with interesting individuals throughout his writings, such as a childhood friend who turned into a religious zealot or the store owner who shared his stories of loss and recovery. The people he met along the way were his source of inspiration and his strength to keep traveling.
Nature Excursions
The landscape was just as integral to his journey. Whitman’s excursions had him being serenaded by the calls of birds and the rumbles of thunder. It must have been inspiring for Whitman to be out in nature and take in the majesty of it all. His vivid accounts of the open sky, the streams he crossed, the mountains he scaled and the valleys he passed were passionately described in his writing; one that always stands out is when he stumbled onto a secluded lake in the Catskills and declared it a poet’s paradise.
Insight from a Tour Guide
Whitman was never one to shy away from a challenge, and a guide was often needed to lead him along the way. For several years a man named Theodore Huxley served as his faithful companion. It was Huxley’s job to lead the way and make sure no harm came to Whitman. Huxley spoke of Whitman’s knack for conversation and his love of nature. He talked about the long days of walking and the short nights of sleeping beside the campfire, while Whitman reveled in everything his journey had to offer.
Fashion Sense
Moreover, Whitman would dress the part. He wrote in his journal about the importance of looking his best for each important event he would be attending. Dressing to the nines allowed Whitman to captivate the attention of everyone he encountered, and allowed him to draw more from conversations with the people he encountered on his journeys.
Inspiration for Poems
That being said, it can be assumed that from Whitman’s travels came his ever-so-popular poetry. His famous poetry was based off of his observations, inspirations, and interactions with the people, places, and events he encountered during his travels. The scope of emotions and feelings Whitman was able to convey, perhaps proved he had taken as much out of his journeys as he had put into it.
Self Discovery
The road less traveled can be a powerful thing. For Whitman, his numerous journeys throughout the United States inspired him and opened his eyes to the world. With each step and each destination, Whitman found himself, both emotionally and artistically. He discovered his passion for truth and beauty and was able to cultivate his writing ability at a rapid rate.
Exhibits and Documentaries
Nowadays, many museums and institutions have organized exhibitions and documentaries around Whitman’s travels and writings. These are great ways to learn more about the lasting impact of Walt Whitman’s travels and their influence on his writings. But why not experience it directly? Pack your bags, throw on your boots and join a Walt Whitman tour to explore the land in the same way the poet once did.
Modern Interpretations
Today, as we travel far and wide, there is much we can learn from Walt Whitman’s spirit of adventure. His love for exploration and the desire to discover the unknown is something that will endure for years to come. Modern travelers can take inspiration from Whitman’s travels and make their own adventure.
Appreciation for Nature
Whitman’s love for nature was evident in his works. He certainly would want his readers and followers to take the same message: to take full advantage of the natural beauty that can be found in this country. Another one of Whitman’s poems stresses the importance of appreciating nature and its wonders. He reminded himself and others that even if there may be days of despair and trial, nature will always abound with beauty and energy.
Conclusion
Whitman’s words continue to unfurl even after all this time, allowing us to see a previously unknown side of the poet-activist-traveler. He brought us along with him on his travels and now it’s time to experience it ourselves. Join a Walt Whitman tour and explore the genius and beauty of America as the poet did, dating back to the 19th century. Pack a journal, embrace the unexpected and make some lasting memories as you experience the beauty, landmarks and vibrant people of the United States!
