Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau were two of the most influential literary figures of the 19th century. Both played a crucial role in shaping American thought, literature, and philosophy. major influence on walt whitman and henry david thoreau. They shared common themes of nature, individualism, and self-reliance in their works. However, their perspectives differed in key ways—Whitman embraced life’s diversity and interconnectedness, while Thoreau focused on simplicity and resistance to societal norms.
This article explores the major influence on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau, analyzing their inspirations, literary styles, and the lasting impact of their philosophies.
Historical Context: The World That Shaped Whitman and Thoreau major influence on walt whitman and henry david thoreau
The mid-19th century was a time of rapid change in America. Industrialization, urbanization, and capitalism were transforming society. The rise of factories and mass production shifted the country away from self-sufficient, rural living. Many intellectuals questioned these changes, leading to the emergence of Romanticism and Transcendentalism—two movements that emphasized nature, self-reliance, and spiritual exploration.
Whitman and Thoreau were deeply influenced by these cultural shifts. Their works responded to the growing materialism and loss of individuality in American life. While Whitman celebrated human connection and the beauty of everyday life, Thoreau sought solitude and simplicity, believing modern society corrupted the soul.
Major Influence on Walt Whitman
1. Ralph Waldo Emerson and Transcendentalism
One of the biggest influences on Walt Whitman was Ralph Waldo Emerson, the leader of the Transcendentalist movement. Emerson’s essay The Poet (1844) encouraged American writers to break away from European traditions and develop a unique national voice. This deeply resonated with Whitman, who later credited Emerson for inspiring his masterpiece, Leaves of Grass.
In fact, Emerson himself praised Leaves of Grass, writing to Whitman:
“I greet you at the beginning of a great career.”
Whitman embraced Transcendentalist ideas, particularly the belief that the divine exists within every individual and that nature serves as a reflection of the soul.
2. Democracy and the American Experience major influence on walt whitman and henry david thoreau
Whitman was also heavily influenced by American democracy. He saw the United States as a grand experiment in equality and freedom, and he sought to capture this spirit in his poetry. In Song of Myself, he writes:
“I am large, I contain multitudes.”
This reflects his belief in unity, diversity, and the boundless potential of individuals. Unlike Thoreau, who often criticized society, Whitman embraced it and sought to find beauty in all aspects of life, from the working class to the natural world.
3. Nature and Spirituality major influence on walt whitman and henry david thoreau
Although Whitman was not as reclusive as Thoreau, nature played a key role in his writing. He often used natural imagery to express spiritual truths. In Leaves of Grass, he describes grass as:
“A uniform hieroglyphic… Growing among black folks as among white.”
For Whitman, nature symbolized unity and equality, reinforcing his belief that all people are interconnected. His approach to nature was more inclusive and celebratory than Thoreau’s.
Major Influence on Henry David Thoreau
1. Ralph Waldo Emerson and Self-Reliance
Like Whitman, Thoreau was heavily influenced by Emerson, who was also his personal mentor. Emerson’s essay Self-Reliance argued that individuals should trust their instincts and reject societal expectations. Thoreau took this idea to heart, famously moving to Walden Pond to live in solitude and embrace a simple life.
In Walden, he writes:
“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately.”
This philosophy of self-sufficiency and independence became the foundation of Thoreau’s work.
2. Nature as a Path to Truth
Thoreau viewed nature as a teacher and guide. Unlike Whitman, who celebrated human interaction, Thoreau believed that solitude in nature led to spiritual enlightenment. He closely observed the seasons, wildlife, and landscapes, seeing them as metaphors for human existence.
In Walden, he describes Walden Pond as a mirror of the human soul:
“A field of water betrays the spirit that is in the air. It is continually receiving new life and motion from above.”
This deep connection to nature made Thoreau a forerunner of the modern environmental movement.
3. Civil Disobedience and Political Resistance major influence on walt whitman and henry david thoreau
Thoreau was also influenced by political events, particularly slavery and the Mexican-American War. His essay Civil Disobedience argued that individuals should resist unjust laws. This work later inspired leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.
Unlike Whitman, who embraced America’s democratic experiment, Thoreau was more critical, believing the government often oppressed its citizens.
Comparison of Their Philosophies
1. Views on Nature
Whitman: Saw nature as a symbol of unity and human connection.
Thoreau: Viewed nature as a retreat from society and a source of personal enlightenment.
2. Individualism and Society
Whitman: Believed in celebrating life’s diversity and finding joy in human interaction.
Thoreau: Advocated for self-reliance, solitude, and a minimalist lifestyle.
3. Political and Social Engagement
Whitman: Optimistic about American democracy and saw potential for unity.
Thoreau: Critical of government and promoted nonviolent resistance.
Literary Styles and Techniques
Walt Whitman major influence on walt whitman and henry david thoreau
Free verse poetry (no strict rhyme or meter).
Expansive, inclusive language.
Long, flowing lines that mimic natural speech.
Frequent use of cataloging (long lists of images, people, and ideas).
Henry David Thoreau
Concise, reflective prose.
Strong use of metaphor and symbolism (especially with nature).
Direct, philosophical language.
Heavy use of first-person narrative to share personal experiences.
Impact on Modern Literature and Thought
The major influence on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau extends beyond literature. Their ideas continue to shape modern philosophy, politics, and environmental movements.
Whitman’s influence is seen in modern poetry, especially in free verse and the works of poets like Allen Ginsberg and Langston Hughes.
Thoreau’s influence is evident in environmental activism, minimalist living, and civil rights movements. His call for civil disobedience continues to inspire activists worldwide.
Conclusion
Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau were two of the most profound thinkers of their time. Though they shared a love for nature and individualism, their approaches were vastly different. Whitman celebrated life’s interconnectedness, while Thoreau sought solitude and self-reliance.
Their works remain timeless, influencing writers, philosophers, and political activists across generations. Whether through Whitman’s poetic celebration of humanity or Thoreau’s quiet rebellion against conformity, their ideas continue to shape the way we see the world.
Both men remind us that true freedom lies in embracing our individuality while staying connected to nature and the world around us.
