Why did English readers admire Walt Whitman’s poetry?

In the late 19th century, English readers held Walt Whitman’s poetry in high regard, often showing him more respect than he received in his own country during his lifetime. This admiration was driven by several key factors:1

• Symbol of Democracy: Whitman was initially recognized in Europe not merely as a poet, but as a powerful symbol of American democracy.1
• Idealism and Prophecy: English readers were fascinated by his championing of the common man, which they perceived as both idealistic and prophetic.1
• Literary Innovation: Whitman’s work offered a sense of scope and inventiveness that departed from contemporary conventions. By eschewing traditional aesthetic forms and utilizing free verse, he portrayed the relationship between the body, the soul, and the universe in a new, invigorating way.1
• Spiritual and Heroic Vision: Readers were drawn to his conviction that the growth of the United States was to be spiritual and heroic, as well as his ability to express his personality with uncompromising honesty.1

Ultimately, his work resonated with generations because it addressed the universal human struggle to maintain individual integrity amidst broader social pressures.1