Walt Whitman's experiences as a nurse during the Civil War had a profound impact on his poetry. The trauma and suffering he witnessed deeply influenced his perspective on humanity and the interconnectedness of life. Whitman's time caring for wounded soldiers enriched his understanding of compassion and mortality, themes that permeate his works. His poem "Drum-Taps" reflects on the harsh realities of war while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit. This intersection of personal experience and broader social themes allowed Whitman to create a distinctive voice that resonated with readers seeking meaning in the chaos of their times.