Poem Analysis - Mediums

A Vision of the Ideal American Future

Walt Whitman's "Mediums" is a powerful and optimistic proclamation of potential. The poem envisions a future America populated by individuals who are both physically robust and deeply connected to the world around them. The tone is confident and celebratory, almost prophetic, as the speaker describes the qualities and impact of these future citizens. The poem doesn't shift dramatically in mood, but it builds in intensity as it progresses from describing the individuals to outlining their profound influence on society and the transmission of knowledge and experience.

The Embodiment of Democracy and Nature

One central theme of "Mediums" is the idealized integration of humanity with nature and the principles of democracy. Whitman presents these future Americans as being in harmony with their bodies ("brawny and supple," "their drink water, their blood clean and clear") and appreciative of the natural world ("Trees, animals, waters, shall be convey'd"). They are also intrinsically linked to the economic and industrial landscape of the nation ("they shall enjoy the sight of the beef, lumber, bread-stuffs, of Chicago"). This connection to both nature and industry reflects Whitman's vision of a democratic society where individuals are grounded in the tangible realities of life and the bounty of the land.

The Power of Communication and Expression

Another key theme is the importance of communication and the transmission of knowledge. The poem emphasizes the role of these individuals as "makers and finders" who will generate "poems and materials of poems" from their lives. They are not merely passive observers; they actively shape and share their experiences. The emphasis on public speaking ("they shall train themselves to go in public to become orators and oratresses") underscores the value placed on articulate expression and the ability to influence others. This theme highlights the power of language and storytelling in shaping a nation's identity and values.

"Divine Conveyers" and the Gospels of Experience

The phrase "divine conveyers" is a potent symbol in the poem. It suggests that these future Americans will act as conduits for a new kind of spirituality – one rooted in experience rather than traditional religious dogma. The "gospels" they convey are not necessarily religious texts, but rather the lived realities of "characters, events, retrospections." This suggests that every aspect of life – from the natural world to human relationships and even death itself – holds profound meaning and can be a source of insight and understanding. The poem challenges the reader to consider where the divine resides and what constitutes sacred knowledge, possibly implying that the mundane and the everyday are equally valid sources of truth.

A Legacy of Shared Humanity

In conclusion, "Mediums" is a powerful testament to Whitman's faith in the potential of the American people. The poem envisions a future where individuals are fully realized, connected to nature and each other, and dedicated to sharing their experiences and insights. By focusing on the idea of "conveying" – transmitting knowledge, emotions, and experiences – Whitman suggests that the true measure of a society lies in its ability to foster communication, understanding, and a shared sense of humanity. The poem invites reflection on what it means to be a "medium" – a conduit for the experiences and values that shape our world.