Lincoln and Whitman: Parallel Lives in Civil War Washington

Mentioned in the 1861 chapter.

Epstein states that Clapp might have been a lover of Walt Whitman.

Epstein claims de Gurowski brought with him an air of romance and intellectual arrogance and that he idolized Whitman.

Mentioned in the 1861 chapter.

Howells remarked that Whitman was practically the object of cult worship. Howells also claimed that that the Atlantic [Monthly] was a more desirable showcase for young writers than The Saturday Press.

It appears that Howells' visit to Pfaff's prompted by being baited by Clapp to do so. Howells also reportedly did not recognize Whitman and was unawareof his presence until Howells' departure.

Epstein refers to him as "Charley" and states that Pfaff's opened just months after the publication of Leaves of Grass. Epstein also discusses Pfaff's new tavern on 24th St. that failed.

Epstein notes that the paper ran more than 25 items by and about Whitman -- reviews, advertisements, parodies- during 1860 for the third edition of Leaves of Grass.

Epstein mentions that Whitman was never reported as being seen drunk at Pfaff's and that his regular table was along the back wall. Epstein states here that Whitman compared the size of Pfaff's to his bedroom on Portland Ave (other sources note that this comparison was made to Whitman's bedroom at Mickle St.).

Epstein remarks that everyone knew in 1861 that Whitman could be found at Pfaff's, where he was admired by the gathered artists. Epstein also discusses Whitman's meetings with the Fred Gray Association and claims he was Jovian and in his element at Pfaff's.