While it doesn't directly use the phrase "I Sing Body Electric", the section is often referred to as "I Sing Body Electric" because it focuses on the powerful, vibrant, and complex nature of the physical form.
Here's how the theme manifests in the section:
* Celebration of the body's power: Whitman celebrates the body's strength, flexibility, and ability to endure hardship. He sees the body as a tool for experiencing the world and creating art.
* Acceptance of all bodies: Whitman embraces the diversity of human bodies, regardless of size, shape, or ability. He rejects the idea of a "perfect" body and instead celebrates the unique beauty of every individual.
* Connection to the natural world: Whitman sees the body as part of the natural world, connecting it to the earth, animals, and the cosmos. He emphasizes the body's vulnerability and its connection to the cycle of life and death.
* Spiritual dimension: The section acknowledges the soul and spirit within the body, intertwining the physical and the spiritual. Whitman sees the body as a vessel for experiencing life and expressing creativity.
In essence, "I Sing of Olaf Glad and Big" (or "I Sing Body Electric") is an anthem of human physicality, celebrating its raw power, intricate complexity, and its vital role in human experience.