Main / Authors

Walt Whitman - Biography

Whitman: A name that is associated with the freedom, passion and voice of the American nation. This distinguished poet, journalist and man wrote with soul and passion, leaving an indelible mark on the history of American literature. In this biography, we will immerse ourselves in the life of a Whitman, explore his work and appreciate the influence he had on poetry and society.

Walt was born on May 31, 1819, in West Hills, New York, United States. He was the second of nine children in the family of Walter and Louise Whitmen. His family was humble and he received a limited education. However, his parents encouraged his reading and love of literature.

Walt began his career as a printer and journalist. His first publications included poetry and prose in local newspapers. In 1836 he moved to New York City, where he worked as a journalist and printer. At this time, he began to engage in self-education and became actively interested in literature and politics.

The most famous and significant work of Walt Whitman was his poem Leaves of Grass, which he published in 1855. This poem became his literary debut and a symbol of American poetry. It was an unusual free form and content, expressing ideas about democracy, individualism and freedom.

The poem provoked mixed reactions from society and critics, but Whitman was confident in its value and continued to complement and expand it in subsequent editions. "Leaves of Grass" became an important symbol of American culture and literature, and they influenced many poets and writers.

Walt also became known for his poetic works on the American Civil War (1861-1865). He served as a hospital orderly during the war and was fascinated by the idea of humanism and the importance of caring for the wounded and suffering.