- Born
- Died
- Walter Whitman was an American poet, essayist and journalist. A humanist, he was a part of the transition between transcendentalism and realism, incorporating both views in his works. Whitman is among the most influential poets in the American canon, often called the father of free verse. His work was controversial in its time, particularly his 1855 poetry collection Leaves of Grass, which was described as obscene for its overt sensuality. Whitman's own life came under scrutiny for his presumed homosexuality.
- IMDb mini biography by: Bonitao
- He is considered one of the most important poets in American literature.
- Did not start writing until he was in his mid-30s.
- He worked as a carpenter, schoolteacher, hospital orderly and journalist before writing.
- Inducted into the Hall of Fame for Great Americans in 1930.
- Walt Whitman was 5 ft 11.5 in tall: «At this time Whitman's fine physique was impressive; measuring, as he said, only a half inch less than six feet in height» ("Personal Recollections of Walt Whitman" by Ellen M. Calder).
- Re-examine all that you have been told . . . dismiss that which insults your soul.
- Every moment of light and dark is a miracle.
- Keep your face always toward the sunshine--and shadows will fall behind you.
- Do I contradict myself? Very well, then I contradict myself, I am large, I contain multitudes.
- Oh while I live, to be the ruler of life, not a slave, to meet life as a powerful conqueror, and nothing exterior to me will ever take command of me.
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