Here's how he portrays them:
* Active and Engaged: Whitman uses the present tense ("I hear...singing") to highlight the vibrant, ongoing nature of their work. They are not passive subjects but active participants in building America.
* Proud and Confident: The poem emphasizes their self-assurance and pride in their work, evident in lines like "the carpenter singing his as he measures his plank or beam," and "the mason singing his as he makes ready for work, or leaves off work."
* Unique and Diverse: Whitman showcases the variety of occupations and the unique songs each worker sings. This emphasizes the rich tapestry of American labor and the contributions of all, from the "mechanic" to the "boatman" to the "shoemaker."
* Essential to the Nation: By weaving together the individual songs of each worker, Whitman creates a collective chorus that represents the heart and soul of America. Their work is not just about producing goods, but about shaping the nation's identity.
* Free and Independent: Though their songs are varied, they all share a sense of freedom and independence. This underscores the American ideal of self-reliance and individual fulfillment through work.
Overall, Whitman's portrayal of the workers in "I Hear America Singing" is one of respect, admiration, and appreciation for their essential role in building and shaping the nation. He elevates their voices and celebrates their contributions to the American experience. The poem serves as a powerful testament to the dignity of labor and the unifying spirit of shared purpose that binds all Americans together.