Walt Whitman at 200

Walt Whitman was a ground-breaking poet, chronicler of American life, and unique public figure. On his 200th birthday, we talk about the life, work and legacy of Walt Whitman.

Listen 49:45
An undated photo of American poet Walt Whitman who died on March 26, 1892. (AP Photo)

An undated photo of American poet Walt Whitman who died on March 26, 1892. (AP Photo)

Guests: David Blake, Tyler Hoffman

Walt Whitman turns 200 today. Considered to be one of the greatest American poets, Whitman broke new ground as a poet and as a public figure. He chronicled the turbulent times around the Civil War, and documented via verse the progress of the great American experiment. Today, we’ll discuss the life, work, and legacy of Walt Whitman, as well as his time living in Camden, New Jersey, and time spent in Philadelphia. Joining us is DAVID BLAKE, professor of English at The College of New Jersey, and TYLER HOFFMAN, professor of English at Rutgers University-Camden.

WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal