Question

Which of the following addresses one or more themes that Whitman develops in this excerpt?

1) People talk too much about dying and not enough about living life to its fullest.
2) It's sad that so many mothers and children have died.
3) Thinking about death in a new and timeless way lessens the sadness of it.
4) We can learn how to talk to the dead if we listen closely enough at their graves.

Answer 1

Option 3 addresses Whitman's treatment of death in a reflective manner, which is a theme seen in his work including the poignant engagement with the Civil War and the celebration of life.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question refers to the themes developed by Walt Whitman in his poetry, particularly in the given excerpt. Whitman's work, including selections such as "Song of Myself" and "Leaves of Grass", often revolves around themes of democracy, individualism, and the celebration of the common man. Whitman's verses are characterized by deep cadences and a voice that merges common images with intellectual musings, balancing simplicity with grand philosophical ideals. His treatment of death, especially in the context of the Civil War, adds a somber but patriotic tone to his work. The answer to the student's question is therefore option 3: Thinking about death in a new and timeless way lessens the sadness of it, as this addresses how Whitman's portrayal of death in his poetry could be seen as an opportunity for reflection rather than simply causing sorrow.