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POETRY: Song of the Open Road (Appreciation)

Q. write a poetic appreciation of the poem ‘Song of the Open Road’.

(For General Guidelines On How To Write Poem Appreciation)         Click Here

Answer:

 "Song of the Open Road" by Walt Whitman is a masterful celebration of freedom and exploration of our boundless potential. The poem is an extract from his book ‘Leaves of Grass’. Whitman, a quintessential American poet, essayist and journalist often called as ‘The Father of Free Verse’, invites the readers to embrace the open road as a metaphor for life's limitless possibilities, free will and tenderness of heart. The title itself evokes the boundless possibilities that lie ahead on the open road, symbolizing life's endless potential.

The central theme of the poem revolves around self-discovery, independence, and the pursuit of happiness and to trust in themselves to find wisdom in the journey rather than the destination.

The poem is in free verse, which mirrors the poem's themes of freedom and spontaneity. His use of long, flowing lines reflects the unrestricted nature of the open road allowing the poem to breathe and move organically, much like the journey it describes.

The poetic devices, such as repetition, alliteration, and Transferred Epithet, paradox etc. with vivid imagery and sensorial descriptions in phrases like "The long brown path”, enhances the musicality and emphasis of his themes. 

Whitman speaks to all people, regardless of their background, inviting everyone to partake in the journey and find their own path. 

The poem imparts a profound message that, ‘life is a journey to be savored, not rushed’. It promotes values of self-reliance, curiosity, and joy in the everyday.

In my opinion, "Song of the Open Road" is an inspiring ode to the human spirit as a metaphor for life itself encouraging us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace beauty and wisdom in our own paths.

Regards,
Prof. Chirag Jain

Glossary of words.

  1. Quintessential (Adj) the most perfect (person or something) 
  2. Savored (verb): Taste good food or drink and enjoy it to the full

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