Peter Doyle was Whitman's longtime lover and
some historians would say he was his muse as well. He certainly
influenced some of Whitman's work, however it was Fred Vaughn
(another of Whitman's lovers) that inspired “Calamus” and not
Doyle. Doyle was born in Ireland and came to the United States as a
small child. He served in the Confederate Army which was a surprising
discovery since Whitman was obviously very pro Union. He was working
class and supported his mother and younger siblings which, for some
reason, made it impossible to live with Whitman, which Whitman
wanted. Who knows if thats the reason, but that's what is cited in
many articles. They were “out” to their families and friends as
it seems that everyone knew the nature of their relationship. Very
progressive for the time!
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