Published at the author's own expense on July 4, 1855, Leaves of Grass initially consisted of a preface, twelve untitled poems in free verse. Whitman continually expanded and revised the book. This volume, which contains 383 poems, is the final "Deathbed Edition," which was published in 1892.
In describing this multitude of human experiences, using vignettes from his work and life, Rosenthal serves as a comforting guide to these poetic works of genius.