In Our Time Walt Whitman
Sarah Churchwell, a Professor of American Literature, Peter Riley, a Lecturer in 19th Century American Literature, and Mark Ford, a Professor of English and American Literature, dive into the life of Walt Whitman. They discuss his groundbreaking collection, 'Leaves of Grass,' and how it defied traditional forms through free verse. The conversation also explores Whitman's complex relationship with individuality and community amid the Civil War. His evolving views on race and societal norms, infused with optimism and paradox, reveal his enduring influence on American poetry.
49:38
Whitman's Early Life
- Whitman's early life was varied, including farming, journalism, and printing.
- He published his first piece at 15 and developed a lifelong obsession with print.
Whitman's Varied Career
- After a fire in Manhattan, Whitman worked various jobs, including writing a temperance novel.
- He funded his first poetry book through property speculation.
Emerson's Influence
- Emerson's essays and lectures called for a distinctly American poet, influencing Whitman.
- Emerson believed American nature offered a chance to escape European tradition and be original.
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Intro
00:00 • 2min
The Formative Years of Walt Whitman
01:32 • 4min
Emerson's Influence on Whitman
05:34 • 4min
Exploring Free Verse Through Whitman
09:23 • 5min
Walt Whitman's 'Leaves of Grass': Origins and Reception
14:26 • 17min
Walt Whitman's Paradoxes
31:42 • 15min
Exploring Hope and Literary Evolution in Whitman's Poetry
46:50 • 3min
Walden
Henry David Thoreau
Published in 1854, 'Walden; Or, Life in the Woods' is a series of 18 essays that reflect Thoreau's experiences living in a small cabin near Walden Pond from July 1845 to September 1847. The book is a personal declaration of independence, a social experiment, and a voyage of spiritual discovery. Thoreau details his life in the woods, discussing the construction of his cabin, his daily activities, and his philosophical reflections on economy, social relations, and the importance of living in harmony with nature. The work is considered a cornerstone of American literature and a foundational text in the Transcendentalist movement, emphasizing the benefits of a simplified lifestyle and the importance of individual freedom and self-reliance[2][4][5].
Howl
Allen Ginsberg
Published in 1956, 'Howl and Other Poems' is a seminal work of American literature. The collection includes Ginsberg's most famous poem, 'Howl,' which is a powerful critique of modern society and a celebration of the Beat Generation's values of nonconformity and creative expression. The book also features other notable poems that reflect Ginsberg's unique voice and poetic style.
Essays
None
Michel de Montaigne
Montaigne's *Essays* are a seminal work that introduced the essay as a literary form. The book is a personal and introspective exploration of various subjects, including the human condition, skepticism, and the importance of concrete experience over abstract learning. Montaigne's skepticism is reflected in the title *Essais*, meaning 'Attempts' or 'Tests', indicating a project of trial and error and tentative exploration. The essays cover topics such as the education of children, the role of the body, illness, aging, and death. Montaigne's writing style is characterized by multiple digressions, anecdotes from ancient and contemporary sources, and quotations that reinforce his critical analysis of reality[2][5][4].
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Ludwig von Mises
Leaves of Grass
Walt Whitman
Natalie Montoto
First published in 1855, 'Leaves of Grass' is Walt Whitman's magnum opus and a cornerstone of American literature. The collection, which Whitman continued to revise and expand until his death, explores themes of identity, nature, democracy, and the human condition through free verse poetry. It is renowned for its innovative style and its celebration of the individual and the collective.
The carpenter
A Story About the Greatest Success Strategies of All
Jon Gordon
The book follows Michael, who after collapsing due to the stress of building his business, meets a Carpenter who saved his life. The Carpenter is not just a skilled craftsman but also a builder of lives, careers, people, and teams. As the Carpenter shares his wisdom, Michael learns valuable lessons on overcoming adversity, rejection, fear, and failure. The story emphasizes that there is no overnight success but rather timeless principles that can help one stand out, excel, and make a positive impact on people and the world.
We too sing America
We too sing America
Deepa Iyer
The Song of Hiawatha
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Published in 1855, 'The Song of Hiawatha' is an epic poem written in trochaic tetrameter. It narrates the life of Hiawatha, a legendary figure based on a real historical Native American chief. The poem follows Hiawatha's journey from his birth to his adulthood, highlighting his adventures, his love for Minnehaha, his inventions such as written language and agriculture, and his eventual departure into the Land of the Hereafter. The poem also explores themes of ancestral history, the relationship between humans and nature, and the impact of European colonization on Native American societies. Longfellow drew inspiration from various Native American legends, particularly those of the Ojibwe people, but also incorporated elements from the Finnish epic 'Kalevala'[2][3][5].
Manly Health and Training
To Teach the Science of a Sound and Beautiful Body
Walt Whitman
Manly Health and Training is a series of essays written by Walt Whitman in 1858, focusing on diet, exercise, grooming, and other aspects of health. The book offers advice on achieving a sound and beautiful body, emphasizing the importance of physical and mental well-being. It was recently rediscovered and published, providing insight into Whitman's views on manhood and bodily perfectibility.
Democratic Vistas
Walt Whitman
Democratic Vistas is a collection of essays by Walt Whitman, published in 1871, that critiques the state of American democracy and society following the Civil War. Whitman discusses the role of literature in shaping culture, the tensions between individualism and national identity, and the negative impacts of materialism on democratic ideals. He advocates for a return to a more spiritual and democratic society, envisioning a future where literature plays a central role in unifying the nation.
Shooting Niagara
Thomas Carlyle
In 'Shooting Niagara: And After?', Thomas Carlyle critiques the societal and political developments of his era, including the American Civil War and its resolution of the 'Nigger Question'. He expresses concerns about the direction of democracy and liberalism, advocating for a return to order and discipline. The essay reflects Carlyle's conservative views on social change and governance.
The Bostonians
Henry James
The Bostonians is a satirical novel by Henry James, published in 1886, which delves into the conflict between traditional conservatism and the rising feminist movement in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Basil Ransom, a conservative from Mississippi, and Olive Chancellor, a Boston feminist, as they vie for the allegiance and affection of Verena Tarrant, a young and captivating orator. The novel explores themes of identity, social hierarchy, and the complexities of relationships.
The good gray poet
William Douglas O'Connor
Published in 1866, 'The Good Gray Poet: A Vindication' is a pamphlet written by William Douglas O'Connor to defend Walt Whitman against the criticisms of his poetry collection 'Leaves of Grass'. O'Connor's work aimed to create a benevolent image of Whitman and counter the negative perceptions following his dismissal from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The pamphlet not only defended Whitman's character but also highlighted the literary value of his work.
Blood wedding
Federico García Lorca
Escrita en 1932, 'Blood Wedding' es una obra maestra de la literatura española que narra la historia de una novia que huye con su antiguo amado en la noche de su boda, desencadenando una serie de eventos trágicos. La obra es conocida por su lenguaje poético y su exploración de la pasión y el destino.
Franklin Evans or the Inebriate
Emory Holloway
Walt Whitman
Franklin Evans; or The Inebriate is a temperance novel by Walt Whitman, first published in 1842. It tells the story of Franklin Evans, a naive young man from Long Island who becomes corrupted by the urban vices of New York City, leading him down a path of alcoholism. The novel explores themes of moral struggle and redemption as Evans eventually seeks sobriety. The book is notable for its portrayal of the societal issues of the time, including slavery and urban culture.
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the highly influential American poet Walt Whitman.
In 1855 Whitman was working as a printer, journalist and property developer when he published his first collection of poetry. It began:
I celebrate myself, And what I assume you shall assume For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.
The book was called Leaves of Grass. In it, Whitman set out to break away from European literary forms and traditions. Using long lines written in free verse, he developed a poetry meant to express a distinctively American outlook.
Leaves of Grass is full of verse that celebrates both the sovereign individual, and the deep fellowship between individuals. Its optimism about the American experience was challenged by the Civil War and its aftermath, but Whitman emerged as a celebrity and a key figure in the development of American culture.
With
Sarah Churchwell Professor of American Literature and the Public Understanding of the Humanities at the University of London
Peter Riley Lecturer in 19th Century American Literature at the University of Exeter and
Mark Ford Professor of English and American Literature at University College London
Producer Luke Mulhall