Final answer:
Whitman's poetry portrays death as an inherent part of life, and he is generally unafraid of it. His work combines natural and urban elements, reflecting an inclusive view of all experiences. Whitman directly engaged with the Civil War in his poetry, most notably in his poem mourning President Lincoln.
Step-by-step explanation:
Walt Whitman's feelings towards death in his poetry can often be seen as encompassing a mixture of emotions, but he is generally not portrayed as being fearful. Instead, Whitman's work reflects a more nuanced view that oscillates between acceptance and fascination, portraying death as an innate part of life and the natural world. His poem "Song of Myself" from Leaves of Grass is a clear example, as it suggests an embracing of all aspects of life, including death. While the correct answer to how Whitman feels about death is not explicitly provided in the excerpts, his work does indicate a strong lean towards option A) He is unafraid of it, with his poetry often showing a curiosity and acceptance rather than fear. His use of natural elements often contrasts with urban elements, reflecting a blend of the natural world and the human experience. In terms of the voice of Whitman's poetry, it is often described as free-spirited, democratic, and inclusive. During the Civil War, Whitman's poetry, such as "O Captain! My Captain!" engaged directly with the conflict, reflecting on the collective experience of a nation in mourning, lamenting the death of President Lincoln. The complexity and breadth of Whitman's poetry have contributed to its endurance over time.