What was Walt Whitman motivation to be a poet?

Walt Whitman was motivated to be a poet by a deep-seated desire to express his unique vision of America and its people. Whitman believed that poetry should capture the essence of everyday life and the common experience of the masses. He sought to create a new, distinctly American form of poetry that would break free from the constraints of traditional European models and reflect the spirit and identity of the young nation.

Some notable motivations that were behind Walt Whitman's poetic calling include:

1. Celebration of American Democracy: Whitman was a passionate believer in the ideals of American democracy and saw poetry as a means to celebrate the diversity, equality, and opportunity that the country offered. He aimed to give voice to the experiences of all Americans, regardless of their social status or background.

2. Transcendentalist Influence: Whitman was deeply influenced by the transcendentalist movement, which emphasized the inherent goodness of nature and the individual's connection to the divine. He saw poetry as a way to convey these transcendental experiences and inspire readers to see the world in a more spiritual and interconnected way.

3. Expression of Self: Whitman believed that the poet's role was not just to observe but also to fully embody and express the experiences and emotions of the human condition. He felt a strong personal need to share his innermost feelings and thoughts with others, and poetry provided a medium for this self-expression.

4. Creation of a Unique American Literature: Whitman was keenly aware that American literature was still in its infancy and he yearned to create a body of work that would capture the essence of the American spirit. He wanted to establish a new poetic tradition that would be distinct from European models and would reflect the vastness, energy, and diversity of American life.

5. Connection with the Masses: Whitman believed that poetry should appeal to the masses and not be confined to an elite audience. He sought to write poems that were accessible, engaging, and could resonate with people from all walks of life.

In summary, Walt Whitman was driven to become a poet by his deep love for America and its people, his transcendentalist beliefs, the need for personal expression, the desire to create a uniquely American literature, and a yearning for connection with the common man. His work became a groundbreaking contribution to American poetry, influencing generations of writers and shaping the identity of the nation in literary terms.