Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Of Being Numerous: 40," George Oppen presents a reflection on the enduring symbols of freedom and democracy, drawing upon the words of Walt Whitman. The passage Oppen quotes from Whitman captures a moment of admiration for the "great bronze figure" atop the U.S. Capitol, likely the Statue of Freedom, which represents the ideals of liberty and democracy.

The poem begins with the attribution to Whitman: "April 19, 1864." This date situates the reflection during the American Civil War, a period of immense turmoil and uncertainty for the United States. Whitman's words, quoted by Oppen, describe how the Capitol building and the statue atop it gradually "grows upon one in time," suggesting that the symbols of the nation's ideals become more meaningful and powerful as one contemplates them over time, especially during moments of national crisis.

Whitman notes that "they have got the great figure on top of it now," indicating the relatively recent addition of the Statue of Freedom to the Capitol dome, completed in 1863. The statue, symbolizing liberty and democracy, takes on a particular resonance as the country is embroiled in a brutal civil war. The figure's presence atop the Capitol becomes a beacon of hope and a reminder of the principles for which the nation is fighting.

Whitman continues by describing the statue as "the Genius of Liberty I suppose," a poetic way of acknowledging the statue's symbolic role. The statue is not merely a piece of art but an embodiment of the nation's highest ideals. Whitman, through Oppen's selection, emphasizes how the statue "looks wonderful toward sundown," with the setting sun casting a dazzling light on the statue's "headpiece." The image of the statue glowing in the twilight suggests a moment of beauty and transcendence, where the ideals of liberty shine most brightly in the face of darkness.

The final part of the passage, where Whitman says, "The sun when it is nearly down shines on the headpiece and it dazzles and glistens like a big star," emphasizes the symbolic power of the statue. The "big star" it resembles could represent hope, guidance, and the enduring light of liberty, even as the sun sets—perhaps metaphorically hinting at the challenges and uncertainties facing the nation.

Oppen's use of Whitman's reflection in "Of Being Numerous: 40" serves to connect the historical moment of the Civil War with the broader themes of his own work, particularly the complexities of living in a large, modern society. The admiration for the statue and its symbolism speaks to the enduring significance of collective ideals and the ways in which they can inspire and comfort individuals during times of crisis.

In this excerpt, Oppen invites readers to contemplate the enduring power of symbols like the Statue of Freedom, which continue to resonate with meaning long after they are created. By quoting Whitman, Oppen underscores the importance of holding onto ideals such as liberty and democracy, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. The passage also reflects on the ways in which physical symbols, like the statue atop the Capitol, can inspire and affirm the values that unite people, providing a sense of continuity and hope in turbulent times.

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