On July 4, 1855, an anonymous poem entitled Leaves of Grass was published in Brooklyn. Nothing like it had ever been seen before: big, sprawling, sexual, democratic, ecstatic, both rough and gentle. It was, its author claimed, "America singing."In commemoration of this landmark literary event, and in celebration of Whitman's large-hearted vision, the Aurora Forum hosts a dramatic reading of "Song of Myself" directed by Kay Kostopoulos. After the performance—accompanied by music and historic images—a panel of Whitman scholars and poets will discuss the poem's meanings and what it says about democratic ideals today. Facsimile editions of the 1855 version of "Song of Myself" will be given to all who attend.
KENNETH FIELDS ALBERT GELPI
Professor of English and poet, author most recently of Classic Rough News.
SHELLEY FISHER FISHKIN
Professor of English, President of the American Studies Association, and author of Was Huck Black?
Coe Professor of American Literature, Emeritus, and author of Emily Dickinson: The Mind of the Poet.
HILTON OBENZINGER
Lecturer in English, novelist, and author of a dozen books, including American Palestine.