3B+Bodie

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I Sit and Look Out Stylistic Features

There were many stylistic features of the poem I Sit and Look Out that contributed to the overall meaning of my poem. The central theme of this poem is pessimism. Throughout the use of syntax and repetition, he is able to create the theme of pessimism. Repetition is used by the first two words of every other line being similar. Whitman uses the word “I” and then one of the five senses after that. He does this to help the reader better understand the poor actions of some people. This shows the theme of pessimism because in the end of this poem, he contradicts himself in a satirical way, thus showing his pessimism. Syntax is also key in this poem. Whitman uses many negative words to help convey his meaning. He uses words such as neglected, gaunt, convulsive, or tyranny. All of these words have very negative meanings and Whitman uses them to describe the human population. This again shows his pessimism because he describes all the flaws in humans while he has very similar flaws and realizes that by the end of the poem. Overall, these two stylistic features of the poem greatly contribute to the central theme of pessimism.

I Walk and Observe

I walk and observe all the people of the world, and

All the good deeds they’ve done.

I see a young man rejoicing after glorious achievements,

Proud of his own success.

I see a mother and child sharing a meal,

Discussing what the long day had brought.

I see a husband indulging his beloved wife,

Her appreciation evident in her smile.

I see the workings of excellence, kindness, generosity,

By people of all walks of life.

I watch perseverance in the actions of children,

Determined to achieve success.

I observe this wondrous world we live in,

Thoroughly impressed by the subconscious good nature of humans.

I sit and look out at the darkness that sits in front of me,

Even the darkest nights will end and the sun will rise.

All these – all the benevolence and goodness without end I

Walk and observe.

See, watch, and am amazed.