The Wound Dresser

Focusing on the theme of nursing during the Civil War, the poem offers a poignant and realistic portrayal of the experiences of those who cared for the sick and dying. Drawing from Whitman's time as a volunteer in Washington's hospitals, it avoids sensationalism, instead presenting a reflective view of war's impact on both soldiers and caregivers. Accompanied by three articles detailing his nursing experiences, the work serves as a significant historical document, capturing the essence of memory and the somber realities of conflict.