What is "Song of Myself" and where is it primarily found?

"Song of Myself" is a significant poem written by the American poet Walt Whitman. It is a central piece included within his larger, influential work titled *Leaves of Grass*. The poem is widely regarded as embodying the core of Whitman's poetic vision.

Who was Walt Whitman, the author of "Song of Myself"?

Walt Whitman was an American poet, born in 1819 and passing away in 1892. He is celebrated for his groundbreaking work *Leaves of Grass*, within which the poem "Song of Myself" is a key component.

How was "Song of Myself" first published, and who financed it?

The poem was initially published without any section divisions in the very first edition of *Leaves of Grass* in 1855. Walt Whitman personally financed and published this inaugural edition of his work.

What were the different titles "Song of Myself" held throughout its publication history before settling on its final title?

In the second edition of *Leaves of Grass* (1856), the poem was titled "Poem of Walt Whitman, an American." For the third edition in 1860, the title was shortened to "Walt Whitman." It finally received its enduring title, "Song of Myself," in the last edition published during Whitman's lifetime, the 1891–92 edition.

When was "Song of Myself" divided into numbered sections, and what is the significance of this number?

The poem was divided into fifty-two numbered sections for the fourth edition of *Leaves of Grass*, published in 1867. This number of sections is generally understood to correspond to the number of weeks in a year, suggesting a comprehensive or cyclical structure.

How did critics and readers initially receive "Song of Myself" after its 1855 publication?

Following its debut in 1855, "Song of Myself" immediately captured the attention of critics and readers, distinguishing itself within the collection. It has since been recognized as one of the most acclaimed and influential poems in American literature.

What specific praise did Jay Parini offer regarding "Song of Myself"?

In 2011, writer and academic Jay Parini identified "Song of Myself" as the greatest American poem ever written, highlighting its enduring significance and quality.

What was notable about the review of "Song of Myself" in the *Christian Spiritualist* in 1855?

The *Christian Spiritualist* published an extensive and laudatory review of "Song of Myself" in 1855. The review commended Whitman for establishing a "new poetic mediumship" that perceived the "influx of spirit and the divine breath" through the power of active imagination.

What was Ralph Waldo Emerson's reaction to Walt Whitman's poem?

Ralph Waldo Emerson expressed his admiration for Whitman's work by sending him a letter in which he praised the poem for its "wit and wisdom."

Why did "Song of Myself" face challenges with public acceptance despite critical acclaim?

Public acceptance was slow because social conservatives strongly objected to the poem. They denounced it for its explicit depictions of human sexuality, viewing these passages as a transgression against established moral standards.

What specific legal threat did Boston's district attorney pose to *Leaves of Grass* in 1882?

In 1882, Boston's district attorney threatened legal action against *Leaves of Grass*, asserting that certain passages within "Song of Myself" violated the state's obscenity laws. The district attorney demanded that revisions be made to the text.

What is the primary literary style employed in "Song of Myself"?

The poem is written in Walt Whitman's signature free verse style. This means it deviates from traditional poetic structures like regular rhyme schemes and meter, opting instead for a more natural, speech-like rhythm.

How does Whitman's free verse style in "Song of Myself" aim to connect with readers?

Whitman intentionally avoids conventional verse and stanza patterns, favoring a simple and legible style. This approach is designed to make the poem accessible and relatable to a broad audience, reflecting his belief in the power of words as fundamental as "grass."

What philosophical movement significantly influenced the literary style and themes of "Song of Myself"?

The poem exhibits a strong influence from Transcendentalism. This is evident in passages where Whitman expresses a deep connection to nature and a search for the divine within the natural world, such as his desire to "live amongst the animals" and find divinity in insects.

In what way does "Song of Myself" anticipate later literary developments in American literature?

While rooted in romanticism and Transcendentalist ideas, "Song of Myself" also foreshadows the literary movement of realism. It incorporates gritty, specific details of everyday life that would become more common in American literature following the Civil War.

What examples of "gritty details of everyday life" does Whitman include in "Song of Myself"?

Whitman includes stark depictions of various individuals and situations, such as a "lunatic" being taken to an asylum, a "jour printer" working late, the grim reality of surgery on "malform'd limbs," the auction of a "quadroon girl," and a "drunkard nods by the bar-room stove." These passages illustrate the less idealized aspects of American society before the Civil War.

How should the narrator's "I" or "self" in "Song of Myself" be understood?

The "I" or "self" in the poem functions as a narrator but should not be strictly identified with the historical person of Walt Whitman. This persona is presented as having transcended conventional individual limitations, experiencing life and death and existing beyond physical constraints.

What does the poem suggest about the universality of the narrator's "self"?

The poem strongly implies that the narrator's "self" is universal and inclusive of all people. This is conveyed through statements like "For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you" and "In all people I see myself, none more and not one a barleycorn less," suggesting a shared human essence.

According to Alice L. Cook, what is the central concept for understanding the "self" in "Song of Myself"?

Alice L. Cook posits that the key to understanding the poem lies in the "concept of self" as presented by Whitman, which is characterized as being "both individual and universal."

How does John B. Mason interpret the reader's relationship to the "self" in the poem?

John B. Mason discusses the reader's active participation in the poet's journey within "Song of Myself." This journey involves a movement from the singular, personal experience towards a broader, cosmic understanding.

How does the "self" presented in "Song of Myself" differ from the traditional heroic figure in epic poetry?

The "self" in "Song of Myself" represents an ideal drawn from common people, rather than the larger-than-life heroes typically found in epic poetry. However, Whitman also finds heroism inherent in every individual, viewing each person as a vital part of the collective whole, like a single "leaf" among the vast "grass."

How was "Song of Myself" analyzed by Richard Maurice Bucke?

Richard Maurice Bucke, a physician and friend of Walt Whitman, included an analysis of "Song of Myself" in his influential 1898 book, *Cosmic Consciousness*. His examination was part of his broader inquiry into the development of humanity's mystical connection to the infinite.

In which film does the character Simon Wilder deliver "Song of Myself"?

The poem "Song of Myself" is delivered by Simon Wilder to Monty Kessler in the film *With Honors*. Walt Whitman's work plays a significant role throughout the movie, and Simon Wilder is often associated with the poet's spirit.

Which film directed by Peter Weir features a line from "Song of Myself" related to the "barbaric yawp"?

The film *Dead Poets Society*, directed by Peter Weir, incorporates a line from section 52 of "Song of Myself" that mentions the "barbaric yawp." This line was recited to the students by their English teacher, John Keating (played by Robin Williams), often symbolizing the urgency felt by the protagonists.

In what young adult novel does "Song of Myself" play a role in the plot?

The poem "Song of Myself" is integrated into the plot of the 2008 young adult novel *Paper Towns*, written by John Green.

What was the "Whitman Alabama" project?

"Whitman Alabama" was a documentary initiative that featured residents from Alabama reading verses from Walt Whitman's poetry on camera, bringing his work to life through community engagement.

Which play by Lauren Gunderson prominently features "Song of Myself"?

The play *I and You*, written by Lauren Gunderson, centers its narrative and plot around the poem "Song of Myself."

How did the band Nightwish utilize "Song of Myself"?

"Song of Myself" served as a major source of inspiration for the symphonic metal band Nightwish's 2011 album, *Imaginaerum*, and also influenced the fantasy film that was later created based on the album.

In which 2020 movie is "Song of Myself" recited or enacted by the lead character in the film's conclusion?

In the 2020 movie *Nine Days*, the lead character, Will, portrayed by Winston Duke, recites or enacts "Song of Myself" during the climactic final scene of the film.

Which upcoming film prominently features the quote "I contain multitudes" from "Song of Myself"?

The 2025 film *The Life of Chuck* prominently incorporates the quote "I contain multitudes," from section 51 of Walt Whitman's "Song of Myself," as a significant thematic element.

What connection exists between "Song of Myself" and a song by Bob Dylan?

The Bob Dylan song "I Contain Multitudes," released in 2020, shares its title with a famous line from section 51 of Walt Whitman's "Song of Myself," highlighting a thematic link between the two works.

What does the image caption mention about the content of "Song of Myself"?

The image caption references a passage within "Song of Myself" that addresses the difficult and often harsh realities present in the United States before the Civil War, specifically noting its inclusion of a depiction related to a multi-racial slave.

What is identified as the core of Walt Whitman's poetic vision within the provided text?

The text states that "Song of Myself" is credited with representing the core of Walt Whitman's poetic vision, indicating its central importance to his work and philosophy.

What is the significance of the number of sections in the fourth edition of "Song of Myself"?

The fourth edition of "Song of Myself," published in 1867, divided the poem into fifty-two sections. This number is generally thought to correspond to the number of weeks in a year, possibly symbolizing completeness or the cyclical nature of time.

Beyond Transcendentalism, what other literary characteristic does "Song of Myself" exhibit that foreshadowed future American literature?

In addition to its romantic and Transcendentalist elements, "Song of Myself" demonstrates qualities that anticipate realism. It incorporates specific, sometimes gritty, details of everyday life, foreshadowing a literary style that would become more prominent in American literature after the Civil War.

How is the "self" or narrator presented in "Song of Myself" distinct from the historical Walt Whitman?

The "self" in "Song of Myself" functions as a narrator whose identity transcends the conventional boundaries of a single individual. It is not meant to be equated solely with the historical Walt Whitman but rather serves as a voice that encompasses universal experiences and speaks for humanity.

What does the poem suggest about the universality of the narrator's "self" in relation to other people?

The poem strongly implies that the narrator's "self" is universal and deeply connected to all individuals. This is conveyed through lines suggesting shared identity and experience, such as "For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you" and "In all people I see myself, none more and not one a barleycorn less."

How does Whitman address the potential for internal contradictions within his expansive "self"?

Whitman directly addresses the possibility of internal contradictions within his expansive self using the famous lines: "Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)" This emphasizes the complex and inclusive nature of the self he portrays.

What interpretation does Alice L. Cook offer regarding the concept of "self" in "Song of Myself"?

Alice L. Cook suggests that the central concept for understanding "Song of Myself" is the "self," as exemplified by Whitman, which is understood to be "both individual and universal."

How does John B. Mason describe the reader's engagement with the "self" presented in the poem?

John B. Mason discusses the reader's active involvement in the poet's journey within "Song of Myself." He describes this journey as moving from the singular, individual perspective towards a broader, cosmic understanding.

In what way does the "self" presented in "Song of Myself" differ from the traditional heroic figure found in epic poetry?

The "self" in "Song of Myself" represents a human ideal drawn from the common people, contrasting with the often larger-than-life heroes typical of epic poetry. Nonetheless, Whitman finds heroism within every individual, viewing each person as an expression of the collective whole.

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Publication History

Genesis and Evolution

The poem, now known as "Song of Myself," underwent significant transformation from its initial publication. It first appeared anonymously, as the first of twelve untitled poems, in the inaugural 1855 edition of Walt Whitman's monumental work, Leaves of Grass, which Whitman self-funded.^[2]

Evolving Titles

Subsequent editions saw the poem retitled: it was called "Poem of Walt Whitman, an American" in the second (1856) edition, and simply "Walt Whitman" for the third (1860) edition.^{^b}

Final Form

The poem was divided into fifty-two numbered sections for the fourth (1867) edition, a structure often interpreted as mirroring the weeks of the year.^[3] It finally assumed its enduring title, "Song of Myself," in the last edition published during Whitman's lifetime (1891–92).^{^c}

Reception and Recognition

Critical Acclaim

Upon its 1855 debut, "Song of Myself" immediately captured the attention of critics and readers, quickly establishing itself as a cornerstone of American poetry. Its enduring influence is such that in 2011, writer Jay Parini declared it the greatest American poem ever written.^[5]

Early Endorsements

The Christian Spiritualist offered a laudatory review in 1855, hailing Whitman for pioneering a "new poetic mediumship" that channeled "spirit and the divine breath."^[6] Even Ralph Waldo Emerson penned a letter to Whitman, commending the work for its profound "wit and wisdom."^{^d}

Controversy and Censorship

Public acceptance, however, was not immediate. Social conservatives condemned the poem for its frank explorations of human sexuality, which they deemed immoral. This led to significant controversy; in 1882, Boston's district attorney threatened legal action against Leaves of Grass under state obscenity laws, demanding revisions to passages within "Song of Myself."^{^e}

Literary Style and Influences

Free Verse and Accessibility

The poem is a prime example of Whitman's distinctive free verse style. Eschewing traditional metrical patterns and stanzaic structures, Whitman favored a direct, accessible language—words "as simple as grass" (section 39)—aimed at engaging a broad audience.^[7]

Romanticism and Transcendentalism

A strong current of Transcendentalist thought permeates the poem, evident in Whitman's expressions of finding divinity within nature and the animal kingdom, as seen in section 32 where he contemplates living amongst animals and perceiving the divine in insects.

Foreshadowing Realism

Beyond its romanticism, the poem anticipates the literary realism that would gain prominence in American literature following the Civil War. Whitman incorporates vivid, often gritty, details of everyday life, capturing the complex realities of his time. For instance, section 15 presents stark vignettes:

The lunatic is carried at last to the asylum a confirm'd case,
(He will never sleep any more as he did in the cot in his mother's bed-room;)
The jour printer with gray head and gaunt jaws works at his case,
He turns his quid of tobacco while his eyes blurr with the manuscript;
The malform'd limbs are tied to the surgeon's table,
What is removed drops horribly in a pail;
The quadroon girl is sold at the auction-stand, the drunkard nods by the bar-room stove, ...^[117]

This passage reflects the unsavory realities of the United States before the Civil War, including depictions of social issues and marginalized individuals.

The Expansive 'Self'

Beyond the Individual

In "Song of Myself," Whitman crafts a powerful narrative voice—an "I" that transcends the historical Walt Whitman. This persona is not confined by conventional limitations, declaring, "I pass death with the dying, and birth with the new-washed babe .... and am not contained between my hat and boots" (section 7).^{^a}

Universal Connection

Whitman explicitly positions this "Self" as a conduit for universal experience, suggesting it speaks for all humanity: "For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you" (section 1). He further emphasizes this connection: "In all people I see myself, none more and not one a barleycorn less / and the good or bad I say of myself I say of them" (section 20). The narrator acts as a voice for others: "It is you talking just as much as myself... I act as the tongue of you" (section 47).

Containing Multitudes

The poem famously embraces internal complexity and contradiction as a sign of expansive identity: "Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)" (section 51).^[8] Scholars like Alice L. Cook interpret this "Self" as simultaneously individual and universal, while John B. Mason highlights the reader's journey from the singular self to a cosmic perspective.^[9] This "Self" represents a democratic ideal, finding heroism not in a singular hero, but in the inherent worth of every common individual, each an expression of the collective whole.

Cultural Resonance

Literary and Academic Influence

Richard Maurice Bucke's influential 1898 book, Cosmic Consciousness, analyzed "Song of Myself" as a key text in understanding humanity's evolving mystical connection to the infinite.^{^a}

Cinematic and Literary Adaptations

The poem's themes have resonated across various media:

In the film With Honors, the character Simon Wilder delivers the poem, embodying Whitman's spirit.
The film Dead Poets Society features a recitation of the line concerning the "barbaric yawp," illustrating the protagonists' urgency.
John Green's 2008 novel Paper Towns prominently features the poem.^[11]
The play I and You by Lauren Gunderson centers on the poem.^[14]
The 2020 film Nine Days culminates in a powerful enactment of the poem.
The upcoming film The Life of Chuck (2025) highlights the quote "I contain multitudes."

Musical Inspirations

The symphonic metal album Imaginaerum (2011) by Nightwish, and its accompanying film, drew significant inspiration from "Song of Myself."

Community and Performance

The documentary project Whitman Alabama showcased residents reciting Whitman's verses, bringing the poetry into contemporary community life.^[12]^[13]

Related Works by Walt Whitman

v t e Walt Whitman
Leaves of Grass (1855–1892)	"Come Up from the Fields Father" (1865) "Crossing Brooklyn Ferry" (1856) "Hush'd Be the Camps To-Day" (1865) "I Sing the Body Electric" (1855) "A Noiseless Patient Spider" (1868) "O Captain! My Captain!" (1865) "One Hour to Madness and Joy" (1860) "One's Self I Sing" (1867) "Out of the Cradle Endlessly Rocking" (1859) "Patrolling Barnegat" (1856) "Pioneers! O Pioneers!" (1865) "Prayer of Columbus" (1874) "The Sleepers" (1855) "Song of Myself" (1855) "Song of the Open Road" (1856) "There Was a Child Went Forth" (1855) "This Dust Was Once the Man" (1871) "When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd" (1865) Sections Calamus Sea-Drift Drum-Taps
Other works	List of poems Franklin Evans (1842) Life and Adventures of Jack Engle (1852) Democratic Vistas (1871) Passage to India (1871)
Adaptations	Elegiac Ode (1884) Sea Drift (1906) A Sea Symphony (1909) Ode to Death (1919) Morning Heroes (1930) Sea Drift (1933) Dona nobis pacem (1936) Secular Cantata No. 2: A Free Song (1942) When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd (1946) The Wound-Dresser (1989) Lilacs (1996) Symphony No. 2 (1999) Dooryard Bloom (2004)
Life and honoraria	Walt Whitman Award Walt Whitman and Abraham Lincoln Lectures Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site Walt Whitman House The Long Islander Walt Whitman Bridge Walt Whitman (Davidson) Walt Whitman High School (Maryland) Walt Whitman High School (New York) Walt Whitman Shops Whitman-Walker Health

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References

Greenspan, Ezra, ed. Walt Whitmanâs "Song of Myself": A Sourcebook and Critical Edition. New York: Routledge, 2005. Print.

Loving, Jerome. Walt Whitman: The Song of Himself. California: University of California Press, 1999. Print.

Gutman, Huck. "Walt Whitman's 'Song of Myself'". The Oxford Encyclopedia of American Literature. Ed. Jay Parini. Oxford University Press, 2004. Oxford Reference Online. Oxford University Press. Web. 20 October 2011

Reynolds, David S. Walt Whitmanâs America: A Cultural Biography. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1995. Print.

Redding, Patrick. "Whitman Unbound: Democracy and Poetic Form". New Literary Theory 41.3 (2010): 669-90. Project Muse. Web. 19 October 2011.

Cook, Alice L. "A Note on Whitmanâs Symbolism in 'Song of Myself'". Modern Language Notes 65.4 (1950): 228-32. JSTOR. Web. 17 October 2011

Mason, John B. "Walt Whitman's Catalogues: Rhetorical Means for Two Journeys in 'Song of Myself'". American Literature 45.1 (1973): 34-49. JSTOR. Web. 17 October 2011.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Song of Myself Wikipedia page

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Educational Context

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available data from Wikipedia. It is intended solely for educational and informational purposes, providing an academic exploration of Walt Whitman's "Song of Myself."

This is not literary criticism or academic advice. The content presented is a synthesis and refinement of source material and should not be considered a substitute for original scholarly research or professional literary analysis. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided source, the AI cannot guarantee completeness or absolute fidelity to the nuances of literary interpretation.

Users are encouraged to consult primary texts and scholarly resources for a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations or actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Infinite Self: Exploring 'Song of Myself'

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Publication History 📜

📖 Genesis and Evolution

🏷️ Evolving Titles

📅 Final Form

Reception and Recognition 🗣️

⭐ Critical Acclaim

💡 Early Endorsements

⚖️ Controversy and Censorship

Literary Style and Influences ✍️

🌊 Free Verse and Accessibility

🌿 Romanticism and Transcendentalism

🏙️ Foreshadowing Realism

The Expansive 'Self' ♾️

👤 Beyond the Individual

👥 Universal Connection

🌐 Containing Multitudes

Cultural Resonance 🎬

📚 Literary and Academic Influence

🎬 Cinematic and Literary Adaptations

🎶 Musical Inspirations

🌍 Community and Performance

Related Works by Walt Whitman 📚

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Educational Context

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Publication History

Genesis and Evolution

Evolving Titles

Final Form

Reception and Recognition

Critical Acclaim

Early Endorsements

Controversy and Censorship

Literary Style and Influences

Free Verse and Accessibility

Romanticism and Transcendentalism

Foreshadowing Realism

The Expansive 'Self'

Beyond the Individual

Universal Connection

Containing Multitudes

Cultural Resonance

Literary and Academic Influence

Cinematic and Literary Adaptations

Musical Inspirations

Community and Performance

Related Works by Walt Whitman

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Educational Context