1. To Celebrate the Individual and the Common Man: Whitman was deeply moved by the spirit of democracy and the potential of every individual. He saw the inherent beauty and worth in all walks of life, from the laborer to the intellectual, and wanted to celebrate their experiences in his poetry. This was a radical departure from the traditional poetry of the time, which often focused on the elite and the heroic.
2. To Capture the American Spirit: He sought to create a uniquely American poetry that reflected the vastness, diversity, and dynamism of the nation. He incorporated elements of American landscape, language, and culture into his work, aiming to capture the essence of the American experience.
3. To Explore Themes of Love, Sexuality, and Equality: Whitman's poetry often tackled controversial topics, such as sexuality and equality. He openly celebrated the beauty of the human body and the power of love in all its forms. This challenged the social norms of his time and helped to pave the way for future generations to embrace more open and inclusive values.
4. To Foster a Sense of National Identity: Whitman believed that a strong sense of national identity was essential for a healthy democracy. He sought to unify the nation through his poetry, emphasizing the shared experiences and commonalities of all Americans.
5. To Experiment with Form and Language: Whitman was a master of free verse, using unconventional forms and rhythms to create a new and powerful style of poetry. He broke away from traditional poetic structures, emphasizing natural speech patterns and a conversational tone.
6. To Inspire Social Change: Whitman was a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. His poetry often touched on issues of poverty, slavery, and war, seeking to raise awareness and inspire action.
In essence, "Leaves of Grass" was a poetic testament to Whitman's vision of a democratic and inclusive America. It was a call to celebrate individuality, embrace diversity, and strive for a more just and equitable society.