Connecting to the Ecstatic Now: Poetry of Walt Whitman

This program does not require registration.

The first edition of Leaves of Grass of 1855 is the most complete and inspiring work of America's greatest poet Walt Whitman.

Experiencing this poetry is exciting and beautiful, especially when it is performed and read aloud.

These poems are then placed in the context of his contemporary Transcendentalists—Emerson, Thoreau, Margaret Fuller and others. Sven Oscar Hansen then traces this American influence on European thought and philosophy and also draws out many parallels to the spiritual traditions of India and China.

Sven has lived and studied in Norway and India, and is a certified yoga teacher and sound healer. He has also owned and operated a music venue and coffee house for several years. Sven has played percussion in bands in the Chicago area and has published two books of poetry—"The Apprentice Lover" and “Get Thee Beneath My Skin”.

In the spirit of the Bards and Troubadours, the program begins with invoking a special atmosphere through sound healing and drumming.

Questions and conversation will end the program. This program is open to all ages.

For additional information, please contact Samantha at [email protected] or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.

Host or Publisher DeKalb Public Library