—Anonymous
While reading “When I Heard at the Close of the Day” by Walt Whitman, there were a couple of things that connected to me. First of all, Whitman goes to mention that despite being in the presence of other significant figures and receiving attention and praises, he doesn’t find himself in absolute happiness. This is something abnormal, normally one would be flattered from receiving such recognition and enjoy being surrounded by lively energy. However, as the poem goes on, it makes sense why Whitman wasn’t all that happy. He refers to the little things that come with life, that being the privilege of waking up in good health, enjoying a serene autumn morning, and being surrounded by nature’s beauty. Things that provide simple pleasures to Whitman are especially enhanced by the anticipation of meeting his romantic partner. Once he meets said partner, his level of joy rises significantly. Essentially, Whitman expresses more joy over being with one important person rather than be in a room full of people where the attention is on him. This idea really resonated with me because personally, rather than being in a room full of mere acquaintances where the spotlight is on me, I would rather be spending time on deep and meaningful conversations with one important person because I find the most happiness in comfort and quality company over surface relationships where comfortable silence doesn’t exist and incessant small talk does. I also know the feeling when the day is suddenly livelier and the things I normally overlook are cherished simply because of the excitement of meeting a special person. The first time I read this poem, I was sitting at a large coffee shop with dim lighting which really set this cozy and intimate mood for me and enabled me to value the poem even more. Although this was a coffee shop, it also had a bar counter and was a place for people to catch up. Throughout the many times I have visited, I’ve witnessed longtime friends reconnected and families too. Overall, it’s a very intimate setting and a place where people can share laughs over a drink. Without this environment, I don’t think my first impression would have been as appreciative. Some nights I would rather spend my evenings alone and enjoy my own company rather than go to a party. This idea reminded me of another poem we read in class called “Alone and Drinking Under the Moon” by Li Po, another poem I enjoyed. Li speaks about finding satisfaction in moments where he is drinking by himself with the company of the moon and his shadow. He is able to be himself without worrying about the judgement of others. Like Whitman, he expresses his appreciation for nature, both writing about the moonlight, and smaller settings. Whether it be, spending time with a friend, a partner, or even yourself, it’s a good way to connect deeper with yourself and discover who you are. I think having moments to take time to get to know yourself is especially important in times like this when you’re about to start truly living life and transitioning into adulthood. This gives insight into figuring out what the major priorities are for you and establishing what truly matters aside from what other people want. In addition to that, technology is a huge distraction and interferes with truly cherishing personal relationships, so poems that highlight these messages of gratitude and solitude are helpful reminders in 2020.
