Leaves of Grass, Part 190 summary
Part 190 of 358 · Book 5: Calamus · 1 min to read the part
In The City Dead House, the speaker stops beside a morgue and contemplates the unclaimed body of a dead prostitute, describing her as a ruined yet sacred dwelling. His attention turns from her physical remains to her lost vitality, answering her rejection with a trembling breath and a tear.
What happens
- The speaker leaves the surrounding noise and pauses near the morgue gate, where a dead prostitute lies unclaimed.
- He concentrates on her body rather than the cold, running water, or unpleasant smells.
- He describes the body as a remarkable ruined house, worth more than dwellings, the Capitol, and cathedrals.
- He addresses the rejected woman with a breath and a tear.
- He recalls her body's life and laughter while describing a deathlike condition lasting months or years.
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In this part
What to notice
The house image gives the neglected body a worth beyond impressive buildings. It directly counters the rejection shown by her unclaimed remains.
Quick check
What does the speaker offer the dead woman?
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