Author Description

"Walt Whitman's "Song of Myself" (1855) has been enjoyed, debated, and imitated by readers, critics, and poets around the world since its publication. Many now argue that it is the most influential poem written by an American." "Functioning as both sourcebook and critical edition of Whitman's extraordinarily creative and controversial poem, this is essential reading for all those beginning detailed study of "Song of Myself" and seeking a way through Whitman's text and the wealth of contextual and critical material that surrounds it."--Jacket.