Identify an extended metaphor in Whitman's "Song of the Open Road." In 300 words or less,explain how it develops over the course of the poem, and how It supports the poem's major themes.

In Walt Whitman's "Song of the Open Road," an extended metaphor is the journey or path that the speaker takes. This metaphor develops over the course of the poem as the speaker describes the road as a place of freedom, adventure, and self.<br /><br />The poem begins with the speaker expressing a desire to "leave the brooked-deeps of the sea" and "the down-hill of the stars" to "travel the open road." This extended metaphor sets the tone for the poem, as the open road represents a place of freedom and possibility. The speaker is no longer confined to the limitations of the past or the expectations of others, but is instead able to forge their own path.<br /><br />As the poem progresses, the speaker describes the road as a place of adventure and exploration. They encounter various obstacles and challenges, such as "the hills I love" and "the woods I love," but they also experience moments of joy and wonder, such as "the song of the birds" and "the laughter of the brooks." The open road is not just a physical journey, but also a metaphor for the speaker's spiritual journey.<br /><br />The extended metaphor of the open road supports the major themes of the poem, which include the importance of individualism, the value of freedom, and the beauty of the natural world. The speaker's journey on the open road is a celebration of the self and the world around them. By embracing the unknown and taking risks, the speaker is able to grow and learn, and to find their true purpose.<br /><br />In conclusion, the extended metaphor of the open road in Whitman's "Song of the Open Road" is a powerful tool that helps to convey the poem's major themes. The journey on the open road is a metaphor for the speaker's emotional and spiritual journey, and serves as a celebration of individualism, freedom, and the beauty of the natural world.