ENG 2403

Axel-Lute

Study Guide for Selections from Walt Whitman’s “Song of Myself”

This poem demonstrates a tension between community and individuality. Find sections that celebrate the individual self and some that celebrate being part of a community.

Who is the “I” in each section of the poem? It’s not always just Whitman himself.

Whitman said, “The United States themselves are essentially the greatest poem.” What do you think he meant by that?

Look for imagery, symbolism, and unusual use of language in this poem. Be prepared to explain some of these.

Whitman’s poetry has been accused of “defects of taste and an excess of egotism.” What does this mean? Can you find examples of this?