In this lecture, Robert G. Ingersoll explores the life and work of Walt Whitman, shedding light on the poet's contributions to American literature and society. Ingersoll admires Whitman's celebration of democracy, individualism, and the beauty of the natural world. He praises Whitman for his boldness in breaking away from poetic conventions of his time and daring to write about controversial topics such as sexuality and spirituality.

Ingersoll emphasizes the importance of Whitman's vision of humanity as a unified and diverse whole, rejecting prejudice and division. He sees Whitman as a prophet of a more enlightened and inclusive society, where all individuals are valued for who they are. Ingersoll's admiration for Whitman's courage and sincerity shines through in his passionate defense of the poet's work.

Overall, Ingersoll's lecture on Walt Whitman is a thought-provoking and inspiring tribute to a literary giant whose influence continues to resonate today. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of words to challenge, inspire, and unite us.

Book Description:
Col. Ingersoll begins his lectures on famous people as follows: "It is hard to overstate the debt we owe to the men and women of genius. Take from our world what they have given, and all the niches would be empty, all the walls naked—meaning and connection would fall from words of poetry and fiction, music would go back to common air, and all the forms of subtle and enchanting Art would lose proportion and become the unmeaning waste and shattered spoil of thoughtless Chance." One of the most famous orators of his day, a contemporary and personal friend of Mark Twain and General Grant, Ingersoll's lectures on famous people in this series include: SHAKESPEARE, ROBERT BURNS, ABRAHAM LINCOLN, VOLTAIRE, WALT WHITMAN, HUMBOLDT AND THOMAS PAINE; followed by inspiring speeches on THE GREAT INFIDELS; WHICH WAY? ; and ABOUT THE HOLY BIBLE. Each lecture in Volume 3, plus 2 lectures from Volume 1 , will be presented on as a separate audiobook in the series called Ingersoll Lectures, Famous People.