* Free Verse: This is perhaps the most defining feature of Whitman's poetry. He breaks away from traditional rhyme and meter, allowing his lines to flow naturally and emphasize the cadence of speech. This creates a sense of immediacy and realism, drawing the reader into the speaker's thoughts and experiences.
* Catalogues: Whitman often utilizes long lists of people, places, things, and ideas. These catalogues serve to emphasize the vastness and inclusiveness of his vision, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things.
* Anaphora: This involves the repetition of words or phrases at the beginning of successive lines or clauses. This creates a strong rhythmic effect and draws attention to the repeated idea, emphasizing its significance.
* Parallelism: This device uses similar grammatical structures to create a sense of balance and highlight the connection between different ideas. It helps to emphasize the importance of each element in the list or sentence.
* Symbolism: Whitman uses symbols, like the open road, the sea, and the stars, to represent larger concepts such as freedom, vastness, and the spiritual world. This allows him to express complex ideas in a concise and evocative way.
* Imagery: Whitman's poetry is rich in vivid sensory details that engage the reader's imagination. He paints pictures with words, making his ideas concrete and relatable.
These poetic devices, when combined with his unconventional use of language and his focus on democratic ideals, create a powerful and unforgettable poetic experience.