Humanistic Concerns in the poem Song of Myself by Walt Whitman

Abstract

This research paper talks about the concept of Humanism that is found in the works of Walt Whitman. Song of Myself exposes Whitman’s view of the human being. He recognized humanity as embracing many polarities, consisting of cultural, spiritual as well as biological. He also emphasizes on the ethos of equality in America. He believed that humanism is the only way of living our lives and all humans should be treated as equals and children of same God. Whitman considered life and all of its components special in their own ways and thought of them as perfect whatever they were and wherever they were. He stresses on the individuality and says that an individual should live with an open mind; should have willingness to love others; and should remain non-judgmental. The humanism of Whitman bases itself on their extreme faith in the Almighty. This paper aims at discussing the humanistic concerns in the poem Song of Myself.