In Canto 15, Whitman emphasizes how others in society influence him and make him who he is, while in Cantos 21-24, in contrast, Whitman explains his impact on society. In Canto 15, Whitman, like an outsider would, describes members in a typical community to emphasize how their distinct roles define and distinguish them. Later, however, like only a member of the community could, he ultimately evaluates their connection to each other on a much deeper level, by enforcing the simple fact that they are all human. In Canto 21, he starts by saying that, while everyone may have different parts in society, they are essentially all equal: “I am the poet of the woman the same as the man, and I say it is as great to be a woman as to be a man.” Whitman recognizes that humans are different, in gender, role, and personality, yet he appreciates them all the same. He writes that he accepts both good and evil, the flaws and the wonders of men. In doing so, he exploits his own humanly desires, to dispel the feeling that he is superior just because he realizes this. He manages to group humans together while still appreciating each individual human being. Ultimately, he views his role in society is to influence everyone to do the same: to acknowledge the differences in each person and to value and treat each other just the same, despite these differences.
Author: Courtney Cook
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