* Diverse and inclusive: Whitman portrays a multitude of voices, each representing different occupations and walks of life. There's the carpenter, the mason, the boatman, the shoemaker, the mother, the young wife, the farmer, and many more. This emphasizes the unity and strength found in the diversity of American society.
* Authentic and natural: The singing isn't about trained voices or grand opera, but rather the everyday sounds of people working and living. It's about the "songs of myself," the individual voices that contribute to the symphony of American life.
* Joyful and celebratory: The tone is celebratory and optimistic, reflecting a sense of pride and satisfaction in the work being done. It's a celebration of the simple pleasures of life and the individual contributions that make America great.
* Active and engaged: The singers aren't passive listeners, but rather actively engaged in their work. They sing "with the carpenter" and "with the mason," emphasizing the connection between labor and song.
* Unifying: Despite the diversity, the singing creates a sense of unity and shared purpose. It is a chorus of individual voices, each contributing to a larger, collective melody.
Overall, the singing in "I Hear America Singing" is a vibrant and celebratory portrayal of American life. It captures the spirit of hard work, individuality, and unity that Whitman saw as defining characteristics of his nation.
It's important to note that Whitman's vision of American society was not without flaws. His poem doesn't address the realities of slavery, poverty, or discrimination, which were also prominent aspects of American life during his time. However, the poem's celebration of individual voices and the "song of myself" remains a powerful and enduring image of American identity.