evokes more thoughtful analysis than in traditional poems. It also may be true that it is easier for some to follow Whitmans flow of human consciousness.Was Whitman revolutionary in his style? The answer is both yes and no. Yes, he pioneered a new tradition in American literature, a tradition which influence continues to be felt in modern literary circles (one being modern day English classes across the country). Yet, his divine style is not new. Its roots can be traced to many classical cultures, and eastern cultures that span the globe. However, it remains to be said that Whitman led a personal crusade against what he believed was an ornamental style. Whether motivated by thirst for publicity (Whitman was somewhat of a public celebrity in his day), true literary idealism, or both, Whitman forged his own literary style to convey his themes of the living individual, free from any constrains of formal poetry. This freedom of thought, this unpredictability of action, has made Walt Whitman a quintessential example of American individualism. ...
