mjestel 's review for:

Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman

2.0

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Whiteman's first published works of poetry. This may be an unpopular opinion, but he just isn't for me. I felt lost during most of this book and did not understand what he was saying. When reading summaries of the poems afterward, I found the concepts very beautiful, especially when I found out, "O Captain! My Captain" (famous from Dead Poets Society) was written about the death of Abraham Lincoln. Whitman believed that his poems should be read aloud and discussed to fully understand their meaning. Maybe this is why I was frustrated. Alone, I only understand it from my view, but together, we can fully appreciate his words. I think that's my biggest takeaway.