How does Whitman's word choice in the artilleryman's vision and his use of phrases such as rousing even in dreams a devilish exultation describe his attitude toward war?

Answer 1

In "The Artilleryman’s Vision," Whitman's word choice and phrases like "rousing even in dreams a devilish exultation" convey a complex attitude toward war that blends both fascination and Horror. The term "devilish exultation" suggests an eerie thrill and a disturbing sense of glory associated with the chaos of battle, highlighting the duality of human experience in wartime. This juxtaposition reflects Whitman's recognition of the intoxicating power of war, while also critiquing its brutal reality. Ultimately, his language captures the seductive allure and the profound moral questions surrounding the experience of combat.