Question

The biography in the lesson states that "Though she was dissuaded from reading the verse of her contemporary Walt Whitman by rumors of its disgracefulness, the two poets are now connected by the distinguished place they hold as the founders of a uniquely American poetic voice." How does Dickinson's poetry, like Whitman's, seem different from other poetry you've studied, especially from other countries and earlier periods? Give at least two examples from the poems in the lesson to support your answer.

Answer 1

Dickinson and Whitman's poetry differs from other studied poetry in their unconventional forms, unique themes, and fresh perspectives on familiar landscapes.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the poetry of Emily Dickinson and Walt Whitman, several differences can be observed compared to other poetry studied from different countries and earlier periods.

Firstly, both Dickinson and Whitman employed unconventional forms and structures in their poetry. For example, Dickinson's poem "I taste a liquor never brewed" is a lyric that celebrates her relationship with the natural world using wordplay and striking imagery, presenting a fresh perspective on familiar landscapes. Likewise, Whitman's "Song of Myself" is a free verse poem that showcases a sweeping view of everyday life, combining high and low culture in a style distinct from traditional rhyme and meter.

Secondly, Dickinson and Whitman explored unique themes in their poetry. Dickinson's "The Soul selects her own Society" challenges traditional gender roles by celebrating the independence of the soul, while using well-known images of power and authority. Whitman's "Crossing Brooklyn Ferry" captures the essence of a rapidly modernizing nation through vivid descriptions of everyday scenes, connecting the great and the common through language.