The poem is not written in the traditional epic style like the Odyssey or the Aeneid, but instead adopts a free verse style. Whitman's choice of how to write the poem reflects his thoughts on the country. Since America is different from any other country before it, its epic should not be limited to the same traditional style. His style should instead be as free as the country he represents and propose a set of revolutionary ideals that will one day become an example for others.