Final answer:
The primary difference between Walt Whitman's and Emily Dickinson's poems is that Dickinson's work tends to be structured and musical, whereas Whitman's is conversational and free-flowing.
Step-by-step explanation:
One difference between the poetry of Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson is seen in their verses' tone and structure. While Whitman's poetry sounds conversational and is often characterized by extended lines and free verse, Dickinson's poetry tends to have a more structured and terse form, generally using short, precise lines that convey deeper meanings in few words. Dickinson also frequently utilizes slant rhyme and unconventional capitalization, giving her poems a distinct rhythm and cadence that can sometimes seem hymn-like or musical. Whitman, in contrast, captures the essence of American individuality and expansiveness through his long lines and sprawling free verse poems that often explore nature, the self, and the collective identity of America, particularly during times like the Civil War. Hence, the correct answer to the question is D. Dickinson's poems are sound songlike, whereas Whitman's sound conversational.