What did Walt Whitman describe as 'the beautiful uncut hair of graves'?

What did Walt Whitman describe as 'the beautiful uncut hair of graves'?

• A. Oak
• B. Grass
• C. Ivy
• D. Fern

Answer: (B)

Grass is what Whitman uses to describe “the beautiful uncut hair of graves.” In Leaves of Grass, he pictures grass growing over graves as a natural, untrimmed covering, like hair that hasn’t been cut. This image emphasizes renewal and equality—every grave, regardless of who lies beneath, is touched by the same grass. It’s a democratic, life-affirming view that contrasts with grand monuments, pointing to the continuity of nature and the cycle of life. The other plants mentioned don’t carry this exact metaphor, so they don’t fit the line as it’s commonly cited.

Grass is what Whitman uses to describe “the beautiful uncut hair of graves.” In Leaves of Grass, he pictures grass growing over graves as a natural, untrimmed covering, like hair that hasn’t been cut. This image emphasizes renewal and equality—every grave, regardless of who lies beneath, is touched by the same grass. It’s a democratic, life-affirming view that contrasts with grand monuments, pointing to the continuity of nature and the cycle of life. The other plants mentioned don’t carry this exact metaphor, so they don’t fit the line as it’s commonly cited.