How do the images of travel in part 46 of “Song of Myself” contribute to the poem’s theme? A. They suggest that human life is impermanent.
B. They show that growth involves a steady movement forward.
C. They remind readers that the poem is about journeying within one’s self.
D. They suggest expansiveness, or extending one’s reach outward.
The correct answer is C. They remind readers that the poem is about journeying within one’s self.
In part 46 of “Song of Myself,” the imagery of travel emphasizes the personal journey and exploration of the self. Walt Whitman uses travel to illustrate not just physical movement but also an introspective journey, highlighting the connection between the external world and internal experiences. This reinforces the theme of self-discovery that permeates the poem, suggesting that true understanding and growth come from looking inward as much as outward.