Walt Whitman

Walt Whitman greatly desired to be "The American Poet". He wanted to represent the people, which is very evident in his writing style. Whitman always tried to be inclusive, relating to the common man. This is seen in his book of poems, Leaves of Grass. Many people feel like the leaves of grass represent the common man, being fresh, new and alive, and even though the common man may be mowed down by struggles and hardships, they would grow back. Another aspect of Walt Whitman's writing was how untraditional he was. He did not let a set rhyme scheme or pattern control him, instead he preferred cataloging and using layers of imagery.