* His upbringing and environment: Whitman grew up in a time of great social and political change in America. The era of Jacksonian democracy, the burgeoning of the American frontier, and the growing tensions leading up to the Civil War all likely influenced his outlook on life and his desire to express it.
* His experiences as a journalist: Whitman worked as a journalist for many years, honing his skills in writing and developing a keen eye for detail and a sensitivity to the everyday experiences of people.
* His encounters with different people and cultures: Whitman was a curious and observant individual, and his travels around the country exposed him to a diverse range of people and cultures. This helped him develop a sense of inclusivity and a belief in the inherent worth of all individuals.
* His personal experiences: Whitman’s life was marked by both joy and sorrow, including the loss of loved ones and the experience of illness. These personal experiences likely fueled his desire to find meaning and purpose in life and to explore the complexities of the human experience.
* His love of language and its power: Whitman saw language as a powerful tool for expression and communication. He believed that poetry could be used to capture the essence of life, to celebrate the beauty of the natural world, and to inspire social change.
* His desire to create a uniquely American poetry: Whitman rejected the traditional forms of poetry that were popular in Europe and sought to create a new form of poetry that was rooted in the American experience.
Ultimately, Whitman's poetry was a reflection of his own unique perspective on the world. He was a poet of the people, and his work celebrated the everyday experiences of ordinary people. His poetry is still relevant today because it speaks to our common humanity and reminds us of the importance of celebrating the beauty and diversity of the human experience.