Robert Shetterly - Walt Whitman's Commandments

The speaker discusses their emotional response to the Iraq war and how they chose to express their feelings through art. Inspired by Walt Whitman's words, they painted his portrait, which resonated with others. Encouraged by their wife, they decided to create a series of 50 portraits titled 'Americans Who Tell the Truth' and give them away, finding a sense of purpose in this project.

What inspired the narrator to paint a portrait of Walt Whitman?

• A conversation with a friend

• A quote from Walt Whitman

• A visit to an art gallery

• A dream he had

How did the narrator's painting of Walt Whitman affect the visitors?

• They were confused by the painting

• They felt a sense of nostalgia

• They ignored the painting

• They criticized the painting

What realization did the narrator have after his wife's suggestion?

• He should stop painting

• He should paint more portraits

• He should sell his paintings

• He should change his art style

What was the narrator's plan for the 50 portraits he intended to paint?

• To keep them in his personal collection

• To give them away for free

• To sell them at an auction

• To display them in a museum

Why did the narrator feel it was important to give away the portraits?

• To honor those who contributed to the country's ideals

• To practice his painting skills

• To make a political statement

• To gain fame and recognition