When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer When I heard the learn'd astronomer,
When the proofs, the figures, were ranged in columns before
me,
When I was shown the charts and diagrams, to add, divide,
and measure them,
When I sitting heard the astronomer where he lectured with
much applause in the lecture-room,
How soon unaccountable I became tired and sick,
Till rising and gliding out I wander'd off by myself,
In the mystical moist night-air, and from time to time,
Look'd up in perfect silence at the stars,
Walt Whitma
1. When you read the poem "When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer," did you notice the contrast between the first five lines (ending with the phrase "tired and sick") and the last three lines? Describe the contrast and explain its effect on the audience. In your
response, explain how the contrast helps the poet convey his message.