Leaves Of Grass

Whitman wrote this poem during the times of the civil war. Racism was very common, and yet he shows respect and admiration towards the "negro". His ideas are very controversial and liberal in the sense that he respects everyone, and sees them as equal. In this poem, he creates a visual image at first, which he then transforms into an idea or concept. In this case equality.

The negro appears to be confident and strong. His dominion over the beasts suggests that he also has power over others, and yet has no reason to abuse it. He also appears to be interesting and attractive, and he is probably referring to the whole race.