Poem Analysis - Poets To Come

A Call to the Future: Introduction

Walt Whitman's "Poets to Come" is a brief but potent address to future generations of artists. The poem exudes a tone of both anticipation and humility as the speaker acknowledges his own limitations and entrusts his legacy to those who will follow. The mood is expectant and challenging, almost demanding that future artists not only understand but also surpass him. The poem feels like a passing of the torch, a challenge laid down for future creatives to carry forward.

The Poet's Humility and the Weight of Expectation

One central theme in "Poets to Come" is the artist's role in shaping posterity. Whitman presents himself as merely laying the groundwork, writing "one or two indicative words for the future." This downplaying of his own significance highlights his belief in the ongoing evolution of artistic expression. He sees himself as a temporary presence, "wheel[ing] and hurry[ing] back in the darkness," suggesting the limitations of any single artist's vision. Yet, this humility is intertwined with a forceful expectation. He states unequivocally that these future artists "must justify me—you must answer." This suggests that the true meaning and impact of his work will only be fully realized through the interpretations and creations of those who come after him.

Answering the Call: The Promise of Artistic Evolution

The theme of artistic progress and surpassing the past is also prominent. Whitman emphasizes the "new brood" as being "native, athletic, continental, greater than before known." This description paints a picture of artists who are deeply connected to their land and culture, possessing a vitality and scope that exceeds anything previously seen. The word "greater" underscores the poem's central idea that art is not static but constantly evolving. Future artists are not simply meant to replicate the past but to build upon it, exceeding its boundaries and pushing into new realms of expression. This theme encourages innovation and originality, suggesting that the potential of art is limitless.

The Sauntering Gaze: Symbolism of the Transient Encounter

A key image in the poem is that of the speaker as "a man who, sauntering along, without fully stopping, turns a casual look upon you, and then averts his face." This image of the casual, averted gaze is symbolic of the transient nature of artistic influence. Whitman presents himself not as a teacher or mentor but as a passerby, offering a fleeting glimpse and then stepping aside. The act of averting his face suggests a deliberate withholding, leaving the future poets to discover their own path. This image reinforces the theme of self-discovery and the necessity for each generation to forge its own artistic identity. What does it mean that Whitman doesn't directly engage with the "Poets to come," but rather trusts them to discover their own path? This image leaves some ambiguity about Whitman's exact desires for future artists.

Legacy and Responsibility: Conclusion

In conclusion, "Poets to Come" is a powerful declaration of artistic legacy and responsibility. Whitman acknowledges his own limitations while simultaneously challenging future generations to surpass him. The themes of artistic evolution, the artist's role in shaping posterity, and the symbolism of the transient encounter all contribute to the poem's central message: that art is a continuous process of growth and reinterpretation. Ultimately, Whitman places the burden of proving and defining his work on the shoulders of those who will follow, suggesting that the true measure of an artist lies not in their own accomplishments but in the impact they have on the future.