It was on July 4, 1855, when Walt Whitman self-published his epic volume, Leaves of Grass, inspired by an essay by R.W. Emerson- The Poet. Despite Whitman’s enormous anticipation for his book, there were unfavorable criticism and sales were insignificant. However, everything turned over on July 21, the same year. Emerson puts down an informal letter for Whitman. This was extra-special because Emerson was not the muse for the book but was also one of the best literary tastemakers in American history.
What he expressed in the letter is clearly described in the paragraph below.
In the starting paragraph, Emerson thanks Whitman for his wonderful contribution to literature and America calling the tome ‘piece of wisdom and wit’. He then ridicules the lazy nature of the writers that lacks temperament and style while comparatively appreciating Walt. Finally, in this para, he states that he enjoyed the ‘incomparatively well’ creation and is delighted to see some inspiration for the future generation.
Moreover, in the second part of the letter, he appreciates the authors for his hard years of learning and wishes him a great career ahead. He then uses a metaphorical expression to celebrate Whitman’s success which claimed Ralph’s excitement for the new book. In support of this, he quotes different adjectives for clean-cut analysis of the work, namely, ‘solid sense’, ‘sober certainty’. He also says that the work has an intrinsic worth of invigorating and cheering the readers.
Moving on with the last section of the letter, we see the use of personal and interactive statements, like, “I didn’t ... until I.” He also suggests meeting the man in New York.
Overall, R.W. Emerson was highly influenced by the writings of W. Whitman and wanted to pay respect to a great piece of art. Personally, I feel that his other motives must have been the inclusion and involvement of other denizens in American literature.
