Leaves of Grass · Chapter
Miracles explained
The narrator reflects on the omnipresence of miracles in everyday life, from the streets of Manhattan to the natural world, asserting that every moment, space, and element of the earth is a miracle.
What happens
The narrator reflects on the omnipresence of miracles in everyday life, from the streets of Manhattan to the natural world, asserting that every moment, space, and element of the earth is a miracle.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional and psychological peak occurs when the speaker fully internalizes the world’s suffering, feeling…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Celebration of Nature and the Universe
The chapter exalts the miraculous nature of the universe, from the sky and sea to insects and stars.
- Individuality and Self
The narrator's personal perspective frames the recognition of miracles, emphasizing individual perception.
Characters to notice
- Narrator
The narrator observes and celebrates the miracles in daily experiences and nature.
Key passages
“Why, who makes much of a miracle? As to me I know of nothing else but miracles”
The narrator questions why anyone would emphasize miracles, as everything appears miraculous to them.
Sets the tone for the chapter's theme of universal wonder.
“To me every hour of the light and dark is a miracle, Every cubic inch of space is a miracle”
The narrator declares that all time and space are filled with miracles.
Highlights the all-encompassing nature of the miraculous.
