"I Sit and Look Out" is a poem written by Walt Whitman, first published in the collection "Leaves of Grass" in 1855. The poem is written in Whitman's signature free verse style, with no rhyme or meter, and reflects the poet's thoughts and observations on the world around him.
In the opening lines of the poem, Whitman declares that he sits and looks out upon the world, observing the various sights and sounds that pass before him. He describes the "smoke of my own breath" and the "clear blue sky" as he watches the "numberless herds of cattle" and the "flocks of sheep" that graze in the fields.
As the poem progresses, Whitman reflects on the larger social and political issues of his time, including slavery, war, and injustice. He speaks of "the many children of justice" and the "maniacs" who seek to destroy them, and laments the "million faces" of those who suffer at the hands of those in power.
Despite the bleakness of these observations, Whitman remains hopeful that change is possible, declaring that "the best is yet to be." He speaks of the potential for a brighter future, in which people come together to create a world that is more just and compassionate.
Overall, "I Sit and Look Out" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that captures the complexity and contradictions of the world around us. Through his observations and musings, Whitman encourages us to consider the social and political issues of our time, and to work towards creating a more equitable and harmonious society. So, the poem is a reflection of the poet's thoughts and observations on the world around him and encourages the readers to work towards creating a more equitable and harmonious society.