Read the quotation from "Song of Myself." You will hardly know who I am or what I mean, But I shall be good health to you nevertheless, And filter and fibre your blood. Why does Whitman use such a simple phrase as “who I am or what I mean”?

The plain phrase “who I am or what I mean” sounds direct and conversational, as if Whitman is speaking personally to each reader. He then says he will benefit readers “nevertheless,” even if they do not fully understand him. This supports the choice that he wants to communicate directly with readers.

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