"Crossing Brooklyn Ferry" by Walt Whitman

    In reading, Walt Whitman's "Crossing Brooklyn Ferry" the entire poem is written in free verse, it has no rhyme or rhythm to it. Mr. Whitman, is very repetitive with his words using the same words at the beginning of each line in some stanzas. He is very expressive when he speaks about the sights and sounds of New York City. He tells this story and you can almost imagine yourself being there, because it's something we all have experienced living in New York City. The hustle and bustle that goes on in a normal weekday. Mr. Whitman, is very observant of what is going on around him, from what people are wearing, the conversations being held around him, to the movement of the river. Even though everyone is on this ferry together, they are all alone, and it goes to show you, you never know who's watching you.

    In stanza 8, line 1, Mr Whitman writes "Ah, what can ever be more stately and admirable than mast-hemm'd Manhattan ?" I believe he is saying "New York City is unlike any other city in the world, as anyone can tell you. There really are no two people in this city who are the same." This city is filled with diversity, culture, and opportunities for relationships and connections. Getting around town you will come across people from all walks of life. Each individual has their own life story and experiences that have shaped their beliefs, and perceptions of life. Living in New York City, you walk  pass hundreds of people on a daily basis, and you often have no idea who they are or where they come from. Often times you share moments of real connection with these strangers. You can engage in deep conversation, and within minutes learn intimate details of their personal life. You may share similar experiences, issues, whether it's work related, marriage problems, kids, and realize in minutes that, although I don't know this person we have a lot in common. 

    New York City, provides you with the tools to thrive in a world that has endless opportunities, and people come from all over the world to live here. They offer great jobs, great internships, and education. Sometimes, life seems hard living here the traffic, crowds, the expense, but I enjoy living in this big city. Where else can you go and enjoy summer concerts in the park, great views, parks, broadway shows, and not to mention the countless restaurants ? I go to Virginia Beach, a couple of times a year to visit family, and the sound of silence and crickets literally freaks me out. After a couple of days of being there I'm ready to go back to New York City to the honking horns, sirens, kids playing in the park. They call it "the city that never sleeps", and I love every minute of it.