Whitman and Dickinson Notes the short way

Walt Whitman 1819-1892 Grew up on Long Island, New York Never went to college, but read extensively 1855 published Leaves of Grass, a collection of poetry Not many people liked it at first because the style was new and strange

Whitman (continued) One reason Whitman was so successful is that he created and “sold” his image His poetry— Utilized free-verse structure Was about broad, universal topics that could appeal to everyone Became famous while he was still alive

Emily Dickinson 1830-1886 Born and raised in New England By 32, Dickinson completely withdrew from social and public life, essentially becoming a recluse in her home Dickinson rarely left her home or met with visitors

Dickinson (continued) Dickinson’s poetry— Used slant rhyme Used unique punctuation and word choices Was very private and intended only for herself or her close friends and family Addressed very specific subjects Only became famous posthumously

Review Time! Answer the following questions— How did each author’s style change American poetry? How did each author’s lifestyle seem to be reflected in their poetry?