Question

Which of the following explanations best describes Walt Whitman's attitude toward the American lives he wants to catalogue and represent in the poem?

1) He is proud of his abilities, and offers his talents to his fellow citizens, who can take them or leave them.
2) He debases himself before those he considers his betters and treats those beneath him with contempt.
3) He refers to the catalogue objectively, so that he runs no risks in speaking for others.
4) He is willing to go to great efforts to make himself the common element connecting these people.

Answer 1

4) He is willing to go to great efforts to make himself the common element connecting these people.

Walt Whitman's poetry, especially in 'Song of Myself,' shows his willingness to connect with and celebrate the common people, making him the uniting common element in his portrayal of American life.

Step-by-step explanation:

Walt Whitman's attitude toward the American lives he aims to represent in his poetry is one of deep connection and celebration. Option 4, which states that he is willing to go to great efforts to make himself the common element connecting these people, best describes his perspective. In Leaves of Grass, particularly "Song of Myself," Whitman exhibits a deep bond with the common people and everyday experiences, and his work transcends traditional distinctions between high and low culture. He sees himself as part of the fabric of America, celebrating its diversity and shared humanity. Whitman expresses pride in the collective identity and individualism of Americans, making him a champion of both the great and the common through his unique use of language.