Leaves of Grass (first edition)

"Leaves of Grass" is a poetry collection by Walt Whitman, first published in 1855. It celebrates the American landscape, democracy, and the human spirit, emphasizing individuality, interconnectedness, and the beauty of everyday life. Whitman's free verse style broke traditional poetic rules, creating a rhythmic, expansive voice that mirrors natural speech. The collection reflects a sense of optimism and unity, capturing the diverse experiences of America and its people. As an innovative work, it challenged conventions and had a lasting influence on American poetry and literature.