According to the prompt, “Slang . . . is the lawless germinal element, below all words and sentences, and behind all poetry . . . [Slang is an] attempt of common humanity to escape from bald literalism, and express itself illimitably, which in highest walks produces poets and poems” (720).” that enables individuals to express themselves uniquely and avoid the "bald literalism" of the standard language. Slang, according to Walt Whitman, is the foundation of all language and expression in his poem "Song of Myself." He sees it as a way for people to express themselves more creatively and meaningfully while also escaping the "bald literal" nature of everyday speech. The "lawless germinal element" that lies beneath sentences and words is another form of slang. It drives poetry and other forms of expression.
Whitman's use of slang throughout "Song of Myself" demonstrates his idea that slang is a necessary and creative aspect of language. The poem's use of slang produces an air of informality and
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Whitman writes in "Slang in America" that slang is an attempt by common humanity to escape the limits of formal language and express oneself more fully. Similarly, in "Song of Myself." Whitman celebrates the beauty, and diversity of human expression, using unconventional syntax and free verse to create a sense and authenticity. Second, both works break from conventional forms and structures. Whitman questions established views about grammar and language in "Slang in America," suggesting that slang is an important and creative feature of language that may inspire poets and poetry. Similarly, Whitman employs free verse and unorthodox grammar in "Song of Myself" to break away from standard literary forms and create something new and