Part V (Pgs: 41-45)

Summary: Here, Whitman talks religion. He takes them all for what they are worth and leaves it at that. He explains he believes they all exist but equating his existence with theirs, painting the picture of himself with some of their characteristics. He considers revelations the same as "a curl of smoke or a hair on the back of my hand." He recounts divinity in simple situations. He, as well as you and I, are creators in our own rights. His faith is no greater or less than any other; he appreciates all faiths, as we should. He strips away what is known to challenge us to seek the unknown.

Commentary: Aghhhh! This is a hard one to comment on. I AGREE. Although I probably shouldn't. But why not, who says? "Sermons, creed, theology--but the fathomless human brain, and what is reason? And what is love? And what is life?" These are all questions I've been pondering lately...what are these things we claim to know so well but really have no clue what they truly are? It's not that I don't have faith in God, I don't have... Well I'm not really sure, but my faith in God is there. II am sort of in agreement with Whitman, however, is it that I'm not sure that there is ONE perfect religion? I appreciate them all, even though I am a Christian. I do believe in Christ, as Whitman does, "Accepting the Gospels, accepting him that was crucified, knowing assuredly that he is Divine..." but also believing, "My faith is the greatest of faiths and the least of faiths..." I don't think I make much sense. I'm still trying to figure it all out but this poem is inspiring serious thought.