Poem Analysis - What Think You I Take My Pen In Hand

A Quiet Revelation

Walt Whitman's "What think You I take my Pen in Hand?" is a poem that initially seems to promise a grand, sweeping subject, only to pivot towards a deeply personal and intimate moment. The poem begins with a questioning, almost boastful tone, suggesting the speaker will write about impressive, large-scale subjects. However, it quickly shifts to a tender and affectionate portrayal of two men parting, highlighting the significance of human connection over grandiose spectacle. This unexpected turn reveals the poem's central theme: the profound value of simple, heartfelt interactions.

The Power of Everyday Love

One of the central themes of the poem is the power of everyday love and affection. Whitman explicitly rejects traditional subjects of poetry like battleships and cityscapes, instead choosing to focus on the "two simple men" he observed. This choice elevates the mundane to the monumental. The imagery of the men "hanging on each other's neck" and "passionately kiss'd" emphasizes the intensity of their emotional bond. The repetition of "parting" underscores the pain of separation, further solidifying the importance of their connection. Whitman suggests that these small, intimate moments hold more genuine significance than any display of national power or urban grandeur.

Rejection of Societal Expectations

Another compelling theme is the rejection of societal expectations regarding what constitutes worthy subject matter for poetry. Whitman challenges the conventional notion that art must depict grand or historically significant events. By explicitly stating "No" to the battleships and the "vaunted glory" of the city, he makes a deliberate choice to prioritize the personal and emotional. In doing so, he suggests that authentic human experience, especially love and affection, is a more valuable subject for artistic exploration than traditional displays of power or beauty.

The Symbolism of Intimacy

The act of parting between the two men serves as a powerful symbol of intimacy and the fragility of human relationships. The physical gestures of embracing and kissing are not merely expressions of friendship; they represent a deep, unspoken connection. The image of the two men "in the midst of the crowd" further emphasizes the personal nature of their moment. Despite being surrounded by countless other people, their world shrinks to just the two of them. This suggests that true connection transcends external circumstances and exists in the shared emotional space between individuals. The scene invites us to consider the universal experience of separation and the enduring power of love in the face of inevitable goodbyes.

Finding Significance in Simplicity

In conclusion, "What think You I take my Pen in Hand?" is a testament to the power of simplicity and the profound significance of human connection. Whitman masterfully contrasts the expected grand subjects of poetry with the quiet beauty of a personal moment. The poem's shift in tone, from boastful to tender, underscores the idea that true value lies not in external displays of power or beauty, but in the genuine affection shared between individuals. By focusing on the parting of two friends, Whitman elevates the ordinary to the extraordinary, reminding us to cherish the intimate moments that define our lives.