The Universal Self in “Song of Myself”
The opening lines of “Song of Myself” suggest that the poet’s self is representative and universal, compared to a humble leaf of grass. By stating that the leaf is no less than the journeywork of the stars, the poet conveys that even the most insignificant things have value in the grand scheme. He also asserts that his own self is interconnected with everything else, containing multitudes and embracing contradictions, thus emphasizing its connection with humanity and the world. These lines set the stage for a poem celebrating the individual self while recognizing its interconnectedness with all other beings.
The Meaning Behind Whitman’s “Barbaric Yawp”
Whitman conveys that his poetic composition is a vigorous and emphatic expression of his individuality and his conviction in the significance of honoring the self and the natural environment. The phrase “I sound my barbaric yawp over the roofs of the world” implies an instinctive and unrestrained cry, which he is broadcasting to the world to confront traditional standards and laud his own exclusive voice (Whitman 52). By declaring that he is emitting his yawp “over the roofs of the world,” he suggests that his poem is a worldwide expression that surpasses limits and reaches all parts of the world.
Symbolism of the Leaf of Grass and Whitman’s Legacy
In “Song of Myself,” Walt Whitman draws attention to seemingly insignificant objects, such as “a leaf of grass,” to illustrate the interconnectedness of all things and emphasize each individual part’s value. By celebrating the existence of these small objects, the poet conveys a message of enduring spirit that will transcend his own physical life (Whitman 31). This sentiment is further expressed in the title of Whitman’s work, Leaves of Grass, which illustrates life’s diversity and beauty.
Shared Themes in “Song of Myself” and “I Heard the Learn’d Astronomer”
Walt Whitman’s “Song of Myself” investigates the divergence between perceiving the world through sensory experience and grasping it through rational thought. This composition lays out the magnificence of nature and the individual’s relationship to it, yet also critiques the restrictions of scholarly knowledge and the scientific methodology of comprehending the world. Moreover, it emphasizes the essential role of all small and unrecognizable things in people’s lives.
Work Cited
Whitman, Walt. Walt Whitman’s “Song of Myself”: A Sourcebook and Critical Edition. Psychology Press, 2005.