This is quite a poem. Altogether, there are (9) sections in this poem. I am going to look at (3) sections at a time in order to try to better understand Whitman's point.
In section (1) Whitman begins to "Sing" of the achievements of the world. There are definitely not ONLY achievements of the great America, he encompasses all. In fact, he speaks of the (7) wonders of the world, the opening of the Suez Canal, the growing railroad expansion, communication lines going in across the sea. He is setting a tone here for something bigger, I think. The world is so overwhelming as a whole.
In section (2) he begins to ponder not just the facts of science, but the fables of other lands. I love this line, "Towers of the fables immortal fashion'd from mortal dreams." People are so creative as individuals and I think that Whitman was giving credit where credit was due. I think he was also trying to inspire people. He says, "The earth to be spann'd, connected by network / The races, neighbors, to marry and be given in marriage. I think he was trying to unite the world. Maybe he lived in a fear of another war. If we were all united and peaceful then there would be this great happiness.
In section (3) I feel the movement. Whitman talks of the railroad system and the sounds of the train. He talks of bridging. I think this is all connected to his theme of unity. The achievements and inventions made by people allow for travel to be faster. The laying of the telegraph across the ocean allows for people to communicate faster and from a great distance. The world was becoming one and Whitman loved it. He wanted these connections. He was reaching globally instead of locally. I think it's fascinating and I think, once again Whitman was before his time.
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