Leaves of Grass, Part 118 summary
Part 118 of 358 · Book 5: Calamus · 1 min to read the part
In O Me! O Life!, the speaker surveys foolishness, disappointment, and wasted years, including personal failings, and asks what good existence holds.
What happens
- The speaker raises recurring questions about life amid faithlessness and foolishness.
- The speaker turns criticism inward, admitting personal foolishness and lack of faith.
- Fruitless striving, disappointing results, and wasted years lead to a question about life's value.
- An answer affirms existence, identity, and the chance to contribute to life's continuing play.
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In this part
What to notice
The closing image answers despair with an opportunity to participate. It offers contribution rather than claiming that failure or foolishness disappears.
Quick check
What does the answer offer as a response to the speaker's distress?
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