Walt Whitman- Slang response questions

1. Slang is particularly American to Walt Whitman because he believes the English language is a by-product of combining cultures.
2. Whitman discusses language in his opening paragraph to lay a foundation for his essay. He states his opinions of language and how it has developed into something so magnificently complex. He concludes paragraph one by conveying that our words and expressions bring liveliness to our speech.
3.Slang is "lawless" because it disrupts traditional format. There is no specified place, definition, or part of speech for slang. For example, swears can be used in place of a noun, to describe something, or as an interjection.
4. Whitman uses metaphors to describe slang as " a mighty potentate" that enters "even the stateliest ceremonies like one of Shakespeare's clowns". He also uses a metaphor to describe slang as a "fermentation" or "eructation" or the "old world mythologies". I believe his first metaphor is more effective than the second because it provides the reader with a more pleasant connotation than that of a "belch". The first metaphor is also more fitting because it adds excitement and strengthens his cause to of using slang.
5. Rather than using a series of abstract metaphors, Whitman makes his argument "plainer" by citing exact examples and definitions of everyday slang.
6. Whitman relates slang and mythology by claiming both "attempt to escape bad literalism" throughout the ages.
7. Paragraphs 6-10 show that slang is contingent upon location, time, tastes, needs, and ties. They form within local communities, disperse, and resinate; thus contributing to the "melting pot" that is our English language.
8. I believe Whitman's opinion of American humorists strengthens his argument. Slang adds camaraderie. Philologists are considered dry and sacrifice their humor as they conform to grammatical norms.
9. The tone of this essay is genuine, imaginative, lively, and lighthearted. The final paragraph incorporates all of these descriptions as seen throughout his essay.
10. This essay reflects Whitman's poetry in terms of tone. His works are free spirited and break traditional molds of literature. An example of this would be the poem "Pioneers! O Pioneers!", calling young generations to seize their youth and pursue adventure.
11. Whitman defines slang as an "escape from bald literalism" (paragraph 2). I can apply this to my own writing by not conforming to the literary norms that govern how I would typically write. By avoiding rigid format and using simpler words or phrases I can create more genuine works.
12. I support the view on American Slang by Tom Dalzell. Although teachers, parents and other figures of authority can monitor the clothes we put on our bodies or the hair/ makeup fads we try, they cannot oppress the thought process of our generation. Slang holds deep roots within our individuality. We are able to express ourselves through movement, music, and poetry. Authority cannot patrol the culture that shapes our generation.