The Great Gatsby: Nick Carraway Fulfilling Whitman's Dream Of America In "Preface to Leaves of Grass", Walt Whitman speaks of the "great poet" who realizes the beauty of truth and simplicity in life. This is achieved through indiidualism and a perspective that nothing in life is trivial. Individiualism is more than being a unique and independent person. The individual is loyal to his instincts, takes advantage of every opportunity, and assumes responsibility for every consequence. He paints a romantic vision of life where material wealth is second pla