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Influences
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Walt Whitman's early life certainly left a
steady influence on his writing. His poetry can be attributed to many
associations and many influences, however, some of the most predominant
ones are:
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Long Island: a native born, his childhood
clearly influenced him. Coming from a family of nine was certainly not
easy, but Whitman never forget his roots. Even later in his life, it seems
as if Whitman was always willing to drop everything he was doing to help
his family in times of need- his mother's death, his brother's wounds,
etc.
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His career in journalism: This stemmed from his
interest in politics. Journalism allowed him to explore territory he had
never chartered; this allowed Whitman's ideas and works to influence the
public.
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His father: although his father was an
alcoholic, he shaped Whitman's ideas and political beliefs. Because of his
father, Whitman was active in the Free-Soiler party.
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School teaching: this career shaped Whitman's
sympathetic and nurturing side, later helping him reach out to victims
during the Civil War; perhaps these students inspired Whitman to help
others later on in his life
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Love for helping people: as seen through his
constant devotion to volunteering in hospitals, Whitman was genuinely
interested in the good of human kind.
Works Consulted
"Walt Whitman." Literary Encyclopedia Online. <speople.php-rec=true&UID=4702>
3 March 2005. |