Walt Whitman
Walt Whitman
Walter "Walt" Whitmanwas an American poet, essayist, and journalist. A humanist, he was a part of the transition between transcendentalism and realism, incorporating both views in his works. Whitman is among the most influential poets in the American canon, often called the father of free verse. His work was very controversial in its time, particularly his poetry collection Leaves of Grass, which was described as obscene for its overt sexuality...
NationalityAmerican
ProfessionPoet
Date of Birth31 May 1819
CountryUnited States of America
I celebrate myself, and sing myself.
My words itch at your ears till you understand them
The future is no more uncertain than the present.
I have learned that to be with those I like is enough.
I am as bad as the worst, but, thank God, I am as good as the best.
Charity and personal force are the only investments worth anything.
Give me the splendid, silent sun with all his beams full-dazzling.
We convince by our presence.
O Captain! My Captain! our fearful trip is done.
Do I contradict myself? Very well, then I contradict myself, I am large, I contain multitudes.
Resist much, obey little.
Every moment of light and dark is a miracle.
Love the earth and sun and animals, Despise riches, give alms to everyone that asks, Stand up for the stupid and crazy, Devote your income and labor to others... And your very flesh shall be a great poem.
Keep your face always toward the sunshine - and shadows will fall behind you.