Lecture Notes on Walt Whitman and His Poem

Introduction

• Walt Whitman
  • American poet, essayist, and journalist
  • Born on May 31, 1819
  • Considered one of the most influential poets in American history

Literary Contributions

• Incorporation of Philosophies
  • Blended Transcendentalism and Realism in his works
  • Transcendentalism: Focus on spirituality and philosophy of the universe
  • Critically acclaimed for the work "Leaves of Grass" (1855)
  • His works were controversial for their themes and style

Themes in Whitman's Work

• Leaves of Grass
  • Initially criticized for its perceived absence of sensibility
  • Celebrates American ideals and experiences

Reflection on the Civil War

• Context of the Poem
  • Poem reflects on the end of the Civil War and triumph of the Union
  • Abraham Lincoln: Seen as a leader, a unifying figure

Imagery and Symbolism

• Captain's Return
  • Captain represents Lincoln and symbolizes victory for the Union
  • The excitement of the people welcoming home the captain
• Mood Shift
  • The captain is found dead on the deck despite the victory celebrations
  • Poet laments the loss, emphasizing the duality of victory and mourning

Emotional Resonance

• Poet's Lament
  • Calls the captain "dear father" to highlight Lincoln's role as a father figure for the nation
  • Expresses deep sorrow over Lincoln's death and his significance

Conclusion

• Final Thoughts
  • The poem ends with a juxtaposition of joy and sorrow
  • Celebrations for the end of the Civil War contrasted with mourning for Lincoln's death
  • Whitman captures the complexity of emotions in this moment of historical significance.