Step 1: Understanding the poem.
The line “And what I assume you shall assume” is from the opening of Walt Whitman’s celebrated poem “Song of Myself” from his collection Leaves of Grass.
Step 2: Meaning of the line.
In this line, Whitman emphasizes the idea of universal human connection. He believes that what he feels or experiences as an individual is shared by all humanity — reflecting equality and unity.
Step 3: Literary significance.
The poem captures the spirit of American individualism, democracy, and the celebration of the self. It is written in free verse, expressing Whitman’s philosophy of oneness with all living beings.
Step 4: Analyzing the options.
- (a) Song of Myself: Correct — this is the source of the line.
- (b) An Epitaph: Refers to an inscription on a tombstone.
- (c) The Soldier: A patriotic poem by Rupert Brooke.
- (d) Fire-Hymn: A poem by Keki N. Daruwalla about rebirth and death.
Step 5: Conclusion.
Thus, the famous line is from Walt Whitman’s “Song of Myself,” expressing the equality of human spirit.