by Whitman · Cluster: Identity · Free Verse · Eternal Return

Abstract

Poet doubts whether the worldly shadow-self is really him, but never doubts his identity among lovers and songs; identity, self and soul, the double.

Connections

Topoi: Double Motifs: Mirror Themes & Concepts: Identity, Self-Knowledge, Comradeship

Testo integrale / Full text

Cluster: CALAMUS

That shadow my likeness that goes to and fro seeking a livelihood, chattering, chaffering, How often I find myself standing and looking at it where it flits, How often I question and doubt whether that is really me; But among my lovers and caroling these songs, O I never doubt whether that is really me.