Free Verse in Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes' Poems

What type of verse form is used in Walt Whitman's "I Hear America Singing" and in Langston Hughes's "I, Too"?

The type of verse used in both Walt Whitman's "I Hear America Singing" and Langston Hughes's "I, Too", is the free verse.

A. Sonnet
B. Free Verse
C. Haiku
D. Villanelle

Answer

The answer is Free Verse

Free verse is a literary device that 'frees' the author from metrical structures and rhythm. Rhymes do not follow any pre-established rules and the 'music' of the composition is due to the use of rhythmical phrases and literary pauses. In other words, the poem does not have a predefined shape since it is up to the author's will to build it in a way that fits more accordingly to what they are trying to express.

Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes both used free verse in their poems to convey their ideas and emotions in a more fluid and organic way. This form of poetry allows for greater flexibility and creativity, enabling the poets to experiment with language and structure without being constrained by traditional poetic forms.

By utilizing free verse, Whitman and Hughes were able to capture the essence of their subjects and convey the complexities of the American experience. Their poems are characterized by a sense of freedom and improvisation, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of American society.

In "I Hear America Singing" and "I, Too", both poets celebrate the diversity and resilience of the American people, while also acknowledging the challenges and injustices they face. The use of free verse enhances the emotional impact of these poems, allowing them to resonate with readers on a deeper level.

Overall, the use of free verse in the works of Walt Whitman and Langston Hughes demonstrates their innovative spirit and artistic vision. It showcases their ability to break free from traditional conventions and create poetry that is vibrant, expressive, and deeply meaningful.