People


Close-up of wet blades of grass

Revising Himself: Walt Whitman and Leaves of Grass

Source: Library of Congress

This companion website to a 2005 Library of Congress exhibit provides glimpses of the items that were displayed as well as background information on Whitman’s life, career, and legacy. Take a look at the “Leaves of Grass” section to learn more about the history surrounding one of America’s most influential books of poetry.



Padlock and key

On Bridges in Paris, Clanking with Love

Source: The New York Times

“Love locks” bearing names and messages can be found on bridges and other landmarks in cities across the world. But as this seemingly harmless trend has increased in popularity, it’s become a much bigger issue in cities such as Paris, where the structural integrity of bridges is being threatened by the weight of love.







Prayer flag memorials at Chukpilhara, Nepal, commemorate those who perished climbing Mount Everest

Sherpas Take Steep Risks for Life-Changing Pay

Source: National Geographic

For Sherpas working as professional guides on Mount Everest, a bad day at work can result in death. Though the Sherpa people have worked as mountain guides for over a hundred years, no one can deny how dangerous the job is, especially in light of the most recent accident on Everest which killed 10 Sherpas in a single day.