Free Verse: Whitman is considered one of the pioneers of free verse, which is a style of poetry that does not have a regular rhyme scheme or meter. This can be jarring for readers who are accustomed to more traditional forms of poetry, and some find it difficult to engage with Whitman's work because of its lack of structure.
Provocative Themes: Whitman's poetry often deals with controversial and taboo topics, such as sexuality, death, and the human body. Some readers find his poems to be offensive or disturbing, and may reject them on moral or religious grounds.
Stylistic Repetition: Whitman's poetry is known for its use of repetition and parallelism, which can create a sense of monotony for some readers. They may find his work to be too predictable or lacking in variety.
Lack of Clarity: Some people find Whitman's poetry to be difficult to understand, as he often uses complex language, symbolism, and allusions. His poems can be open to multiple interpretations, which can be frustrating or confusing for readers who prefer a more straightforward approach.
Personal Preferences: As with any form of art, personal taste plays a significant role in determining whether someone enjoys Whitman's poetry. Some readers simply do not connect with his style, themes, or voice, and may find his work to be unappealing or uninteresting.
It's important to note that not everyone dislikes Walt Whitman's poetry. He has a dedicated following of readers who appreciate his innovative techniques, his celebration of the human experience, and his unique perspective on the world. However, the reasons outlined above can contribute to the negative reactions that some people have to his work.