Major Influence on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau

Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau are two of the most significant figures in American literature, and understanding the major influences on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau can deepen our appreciation of their work. This article explores the people, philosophies, and movements that shaped their thoughts and styles.

1. Ralph Waldo Emerson: A Key Influence

One of the major influences on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau was Ralph Waldo Emerson, a leader of the transcendentalist movement. Emerson’s ideas about self-reliance, individuality, and nature deeply impacted both writers.

• Whitman’s Connection to Emerson: Emerson’s call for a new American voice in literature inspired Whitman to write “Leaves of Grass.” Whitman admired Emerson’s belief in the power of the individual and the idea that every person has a unique voice. In fact, Whitman sent a copy of his first edition of “Leaves of Grass” to Emerson, who responded with high praise, calling the work “the most extraordinary piece of wit and wisdom America has yet contributed.”
• Thoreau’s Connection to Emerson: Thoreau was personally mentored by Emerson and often stayed at his home. Emerson’s essay “Nature” inspired Thoreau’s approach to life and writing, encouraging him to live deliberately and connect deeply with the natural world. This influence is clearly seen in Thoreau’s famous book, “Walden,” where he writes about living simply in nature and finding truth in the quiet of the woods.

2. Nature and the Romantic Movement

The natural world was another major influence on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau. Both writers were heavily influenced by nature, a central theme in the Romantic movement of the 19th century, which celebrated the beauty of the natural world, emotion, and the power of the individual spirit.

• Whitman’s View of Nature: Whitman’s poetry is filled with vivid descriptions of the natural world. He believed that nature was a source of inspiration, beauty, and truth. In “Song of Myself,” Whitman celebrates the human body and the natural world, connecting the two in a celebration of life.
• Thoreau’s Connection to Nature: Thoreau’s entire philosophy was built around the idea of living in harmony with nature. His time living at Walden Pond was an experiment in self-reliance and a rejection of materialism. Thoreau believed that spending time in nature was essential to personal growth and understanding the deeper truths of life.

3. Eastern Philosophies: New Ways of Thinking

Eastern philosophies, particularly Buddhism and Hinduism, also had a major influence on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau. These philosophies introduced ideas of mindfulness, simplicity, and the interconnectedness of all life.

• Thoreau and Eastern Thought: Thoreau was fascinated by Eastern religions and often read texts like the Bhagavad Gita. These works influenced his ideas on simplicity, meditation, and living a life of purpose. You can see these ideas in “Walden,” where Thoreau often reflects on living a meaningful life.
• Whitman’s Eastern Influences: Whitman also drew from Eastern philosophies, using them to enrich his poetic vision. His work often reflects a belief in the unity of all things, a concept central to many Eastern religions.

4. Historical Context: The World Around Them

The historical context was a major influence on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau. They lived during a time of great change in America, including expansion, industrialization, and debates about slavery, democracy, and individual rights.

• Whitman’s Response to Society: Whitman’s poetry often responded to the issues of his time, including the Civil War, democracy, and the common man’s experience. His work reflects a deep love for America and a belief in the potential of its people.
• Thoreau’s Social Critique: Thoreau was a vocal critic of social injustice, most famously protesting slavery and the Mexican-American War in his essay “Civil Disobedience.” He believed that individuals should act according to their conscience, even if it meant breaking the law. This radical stance came from his belief in personal responsibility and moral integrity.

Conclusion

The major influences on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau—from the guidance of Emerson to the wisdom of Eastern philosophies and the natural world—help us see how their ideas and writings were shaped by a blend of personal experience, philosophical thought, and the world they lived in. These influences made them not just writers but thinkers who challenged us to see the world differently. Understanding these influences gives us a deeper appreciation for the works of Whitman and Thoreau, which continue to resonate with readers today.