Leaves of Grass is a groundbreaking collection of poetry by Walt Whitman, first published in 1855. The work is renowned for its innovative use of free verse and its celebration of the individual, nature, and the American experience. Whitman’s poems explore themes of democracy, human connection, and the spiritual relationship between humanity and the natural world. The collection reflects his philosophy of embracing the fullness of life and the inherent divinity in all experiences.

Leaves of Grass faced bans and challenges primarily due to its explicit and controversial content, including its candid exploration of sexuality and its unconventional style. Some of Whitman’s poems were considered obscene or immoral by the standards of the time, leading to objections from more conservative audiences. Additionally, the book’s challenge to traditional forms and its bold, unorthodox subject matter contributed to its initial resistance and censorship. Despite these challenges, Leaves of Grass is now celebrated as a seminal work in American poetry and a landmark in literary history.