When I Heard The Learn D Astronomer Essay

Whitman’s first poem “When I Heard the Learn’d Astronomer” reflects transcendentalist beliefs of nature. In this poem an average person is politely listening to an renowned astronomer lecture about stars as the astronomer expounds through equations and number and odd pictures that seem to have little to do with stars. The listener becomes confused and nauseous. He promptly leaves the class where he looks up and experience actual stars. This poem explicates that while scientific calculations can quantify and measure the components of starts, but the allure can only be fathomed through romantic musing. Only a quixotic perspective can produce deeper appreciation for nature that cold, hard facts obscure. The poem also hints at individuality which can be shown by the listener separating himself from the class to wandering alone where he sees the stars. The non-conformist will follow their heart to develop their own dogmas.
If the title is not clear of Whitman’s intentions to rejoice about the greatness of America the diverse group of ordinary working Americans joining the chorus of the nation is evidence of the transcendentalist theme of patriotism. Whitman’s basic attitude is that America is a nation based on its creativeness of labor, the vitality of the people, and the variety of opportunity. Although there are aspects of individuality that each group is strong and important the each separate job, the unity of the groups singing the same song shows the prominence of the nation as a