Poem Analysis - Faces

Introduction: A Celebration of Humanity's Spectrum

Walt Whitman's "Faces" is a sprawling, vibrant catalog of human visages, a poem that dives deep into the physical and spiritual representations of individuals from all walks of life. The poem begins with a sense of open acceptance and wonder, as the speaker observes the diverse faces encountered in everyday life. This initial tone of contentment gradually shifts to include moments of disgust, pity, and finally, a reaffirmation of faith in the inherent goodness and potential of humanity. The poem celebrates the totality of human experience, acknowledging both the beautiful and the grotesque as essential parts of the whole.

Themes of Acceptance and Transcendence

One of the central themes in "Faces" is that of radical acceptance. The speaker initially declares contentment with all the faces he sees, suggesting a willingness to embrace the full spectrum of human existence, even the "ugly face of some beautiful Soul." This acceptance is not passive; it's an active engagement with the reality of human imperfection. Another significant theme is transcendence. Whitman suggests that even the most degraded or repulsive faces hold the potential for redemption or contain a spark of divinity. The image of the "real landlord" waiting in the future implies a belief in ultimate justice and the possibility of overcoming present suffering. The third major theme is equality. Whitman constantly refers to every class of people, and states that he does not exept "one—red, white, black, are all deific", implying that everone has some degree of inherent potential for goodness.

Recurring Imagery: Faces as Mirrors of the Soul

The poem is rich in imagery, with faces serving as the primary symbolic representation of the inner self. A recurring image is the comparison of faces to animals, such as the "dog's snout" and the "stallion." This animalistic imagery serves to highlight the primal, instinctual aspects of human nature, suggesting that even in our most civilized forms, we retain a connection to our animal origins. The image of the "epileptic" face is particularly vivid and disturbing, symbolizing the depths of human suffering and the body's capacity for uncontrolled expression. These intense images make the reader confront the less appealing aspects of human life.

Symbolism: The Lord's Advance and the Lily's Plea

The image of "The Lord advances, and yet advances" is a powerful symbol of progress and hope. It suggests that despite the darkness and suffering in the world, there is an underlying force driving humanity towards a better future. The shadow preceding the Lord can be interpreted as a symbol of the challenges and obstacles that must be overcome on the path to enlightenment. In contrast, the image of the "full-grown lily's face" represents sensual desire and the interconnectedness of nature and human relationships. The lily's invitation to the "limber-hipp'd man" is a celebration of physical love and the life-affirming power of connection. Is the Lily's cry for connection a symbol of nature's attempt to make the man part of it, or the oposite?

Conclusion: A Vision of Unity and Hope

"Faces" is ultimately a poem of faith and optimism. While Whitman acknowledges the existence of suffering, ugliness, and despair, he maintains a belief in the inherent goodness and potential of humanity. By celebrating the diversity of human faces, he calls for a greater understanding and acceptance of all people. The poem suggests that even in the most degraded or repulsive faces, there is a spark of divinity waiting to be ignited. Whitman's vision is one of unity, hope, and the ultimate triumph of the human spirit.