Literary Influences:
* Transcendentalism: Whitman was deeply influenced by the Transcendentalist movement, especially the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. He shared their belief in the inherent goodness of humanity, the importance of intuition and experience, and the interconnectedness of all things.
* Biblical Literature: Whitman's poetry is full of biblical imagery and allusions, demonstrating his familiarity with the King James Bible. He often draws parallels between the experiences of the human soul and the stories of the Bible.
* Shakespeare: Whitman's use of free verse and unconventional language is reminiscent of Shakespeare's dramatic verse. He also drew inspiration from Shakespeare's exploration of human nature and the complexities of life.
* Emerson's "The Poet": Whitman's concept of the poet as a seer and a voice for the people was directly influenced by Emerson's essay "The Poet."
Social and Cultural Influences:
* American Democracy: Whitman celebrated the diversity and potential of American democracy in his poetry. He saw the individual as a crucial component of the democratic ideal and believed in the importance of individual expression.
* The Industrial Revolution: Whitman's poems often depict the changing landscape of America brought about by the Industrial Revolution. He was fascinated by the energy and dynamism of the modern city and the technological advancements of his time.
* The Civil War: The Civil War deeply affected Whitman, who served as a volunteer nurse in Washington D.C. His poetry reflects the horrors of war and the human cost of conflict.
Personal Influences:
* His own life experiences: Whitman's poetry is deeply personal and often draws on his own experiences of love, loss, and the search for meaning.
* His travels: Whitman's travels across America exposed him to a wide range of people and experiences that shaped his understanding of the nation and its diverse population.
It's important to note that Whitman was a highly original and innovative poet who synthesized these influences into a unique poetic voice. He pushed the boundaries of traditional poetic forms and language, creating a new style that continues to inspire poets today.