Getting accepted by society today is harder than getting accepted by the most selective Ivy League college. Cantos 21 to 24 predominantly enforce the themes of equality and liberalism introduced in Cantos 15. Cantos 15 described the different roles of humans in society and how each of these personalities are essential to form a true society. He states that he does not judge on basis of sex, rank, or occupation. All men are equal. Similarly, in Cantos 21-24, he promotes the idea of a democracy. Every voice should be heard and people should not be discriminated against. He rejects the idea of heaven and hell as he feels that there is no such thing as a "right" or "wrong" human being. Everyone is perfect in their own way. He does not want people to be insecure of who they are and succumb to social pressure and expectations. Hence, he emphasizes on the idea of self pride and self celebration to encourage people to overcome the personal anxieties. This idea of self celebration is highlighted in his descriptions of his sexual passion for different elements of nature--the earth, the sea, and the winds. The sexual tension between Whitman and these elements of nature portrays that no matter who you are, or what your personality is like, Nature is always accepting and would not judge you.
Author: Aditya Goel
0 comments:
Post a Comment