Tones in American Poetry: Walt Whitman vs. Emily Dickinson
Tones in American Poetry: Walt Whitman vs. Emily Dickinson
Tones in American Poetry: Walt Whitman vs. Emily Dickinson
Introduction:
American literature boasts a rich tapestry of voices, and two prominent figures, Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson, stand out with their distinctive poetic styles. A fundamental aspect of their divergence lies in the tonalities they infused into their verses, offering readers a fascinating study in contrasts.
Walt Whitman's Celebratory and Inclusive Tone:
Walt Whitman, often hailed as the "Bard of Democracy," employed a tone that was celebratory, expansive, and inclusive. His poetry exuded optimism, reflecting an embrace of the diversity and vitality of American life. One of the prime examples of Whitman's exuberant tone can be found in his epic poem "Song of Myself," where he passionately celebrates the interconnectedness of humanity and the wonders of existence.
"I celebrate myself, and sing myself,
And what I assume you shall assume,
For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you."
Whitman's tone is marked by a sense of democratic camaraderie, echoing the democratic ideals of the American spirit during the 19th century.
Emily Dickinson's Introspective and Enigmatic Tone:
On the other hand, Emily Dickinson, often labeled as the "Belle of Amherst," employed a markedly different tone characterized by introspection and enigma. Her poems frequently delve into the complexities of the human psyche and the mysteries of existence. In her poem "Because I could not stop for Death," Dickinson adopts a reflective tone as she contemplates the inevitability of mortality.
"Because I could not stop for Death –
He kindly stopped for me –
The Carriage held but just Ourselves –
And Immortality."
Dickinson's tone is often characterized by a contemplative solitude, inviting readers to explore the nuances of life's profound questions.
Contrasts in Subject Matter and Perspective
Beyond tone, the divergence between Whitman and Dickinson extends to their chosen subject matter and perspectives. While Whitman embraced the collective experience of humanity and celebrated the vibrancy of the American landscape, Dickinson delved into the intricacies of individual emotions and grappled with existential questions.
Impact on American Literary Landscape
The contrasting tones of Whitman and Dickinson contributed significantly to the diversity of American literature. Whitman's optimistic and expansive approach resonated with the spirit of an expanding nation, while Dickinson's introspective and enigmatic tone laid the groundwork for later generations of poets exploring the complexities of the human experience.
Conclusion:
In essence, the divergent tones of Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson illustrate the multifaceted nature of American poetry. Their unique voices, each with its own cadence and melody, harmonize to create a poetic duet that enriches the broader symphony of American literature. 0 0 0. Tones in American Poetry: Walt Whitman vs. Emily Dickinson
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