"Dark patches": Walt Whitman's struggles with melancholy

In this episode of The Mad Genius Thesis Podcast, we explore the life and work of Walt Whitman, drawing from multiple biographies that illuminate his creative journey, personal struggles, and lasting influence. From his humble beginnings and strained family ties to the revolutionary impact of Leaves of Grass, Whitman crafted not only poetry but also a public image that blurred the lines between self-promotion and artistic vision. How did his experiences during the Civil War, his political ideals, and his fluid sense of identity shape his literary legacy? Did his later years, marked by illness and isolation, change the way he saw his own work? Join us as we examine Whitman’s genius, his challenges with fame, and the deep connection between his personal life, mental resilience, and poetic ambition.

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