Drum-taps

Definition

Drum-Taps is a collection of poems by Walt Whitman, published in 1865, that reflects on the American Civil War and its impact on society. The poems combine vivid imagery and emotional depth to convey themes of loss, heroism, and the human experience during wartime, marking a significant evolution in literary forms and styles of the period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Drum-Taps was published after the Civil War ended and serves as a poignant response to the trauma and loss experienced during the conflict.
2. The poems often include personal narratives and reflections, blurring the line between the poet's voice and the collective experience of soldiers.
3. Whitman's use of free verse in Drum-Taps was innovative for its time, allowing for a more natural rhythm and greater emotional expression compared to traditional poetic forms.
4. The collection includes some of Whitman's most famous poems, such as 'When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd,' which mourns President Lincoln's assassination.
5. Drum-Taps played a crucial role in establishing Whitman's reputation as a leading figure in American literature and influenced many poets who followed him.

Review Questions

• How does Walt Whitman's use of free verse in Drum-Taps contribute to the emotional depth of the poems?
  • Whitman's use of free verse in Drum-Taps allows for a more conversational tone and a fluid expression of thoughts and feelings. This departure from traditional meter and rhyme enables him to capture the raw emotions associated with war, creating an intimate connection between the reader and the experiences conveyed. The lack of strict form also mirrors the chaos of war, reinforcing the themes of uncertainty and loss that permeate the collection.
• Analyze how Drum-Taps reflects the societal impact of the Civil War on American literature during that time.
  • Drum-Taps captures the profound effects of the Civil War on American society by exploring themes such as grief, heroism, and collective memory. The collection reflects a shift in literary styles, moving away from romanticism towards a more realistic representation of human experience. By addressing both personal and communal responses to the war, Whitman helps shape a new narrative in American literature that acknowledges trauma while celebrating resilience, thus influencing future writers to engage with social issues through their works.
• Evaluate the significance of Drum-Taps within the broader context of 19th-century American poetry and its evolution.
  • Drum-Taps is significant within 19th-century American poetry as it marks a turning point in poetic expression by embracing free verse and focusing on contemporary social issues. Whitman's exploration of the Civil War experience broke away from traditional poetic forms that often idealized subjects. Instead, he presented an unvarnished view of human suffering and resilience, which resonated with readers and set a precedent for future poets. This evolution in style not only transformed American poetry but also encouraged subsequent generations to explore complex themes rooted in personal and national identity.

Related terms

Walt Whitman: An American poet, essayist, and journalist, known for his groundbreaking work in free verse and his celebration of democracy, individualism, and the human spirit.

free verse: A form of poetry that does not adhere to traditional meter or rhyme schemes, allowing poets to express their thoughts more fluidly and authentically.

Civil War poetry: Poetry that emerged during the American Civil War, reflecting the experiences, emotions, and societal issues of the time.