Here's a breakdown of the elements you mentioned and how they connect to Romanticism:
* Unusual punctuation and irregular stanzas: This is a hallmark of Whitman's free verse style, which was revolutionary for his time. It allowed him to break free from the constraints of traditional poetic forms and to more accurately capture the rhythm of natural speech. This emphasis on naturalness and freedom connects to the Romantic ideal of rejecting rigid structures and embracing authenticity.
* Elements especially associated with Romanticism: These include:
* Nature: Whitman's poetry is deeply imbued with the natural world. He views nature as a source of inspiration, beauty, and spiritual connection. This aligns with the Romantic fascination with the sublime and the power of the natural world.
* Individualism: Whitman celebrated the individual and their unique experiences. He rejected societal expectations and embraced the idea of self-reliance, another core Romantic theme.
* The common man: He elevated the experiences of ordinary people, often highlighting their struggles, joys, and potential. This theme echoes the Romantic emphasis on the importance of human experience and the dignity of the individual, regardless of their social standing.
It's important to note that while Whitman shared certain aspects of Romanticism, he also diverged from it in significant ways. His focus on democracy, equality, and the inherent worth of all people was a distinctly American contribution to the Romantic tradition.
So, while Walt Whitman's poetry doesn't fit neatly into the "Romantic" category, it certainly shares many of its core themes and sensibilities, and its unique style influenced poets long after the Romantic era.