I say that democracy can never prove itself beyond cavil, until it founds and luxuriantly grows its own forms of art, poems, schools, theology, displacing all that exists, or that has been produced anywhere in the past, under opposite influences.

Walt Whitman

The Quote in Other Words

I believe that democracy cannot fully establish its credibility until it creates and flourishes its own unique art, literature, education, and religious beliefs, replacing all previous forms that were created under different circumstances.

Explanation of the Quote

This quote highlights the importance of democracy creating its own unique culture and art forms in order to truly establish itself as a successful system. The author suggests that democracy must displace all previous forms of art and culture that were created under different influences. This implies that democracy must create its own distinct identity and values, rather than simply adopting those of other systems. By doing so, democracy can prove its ability to thrive and evolve independently. This quote also suggests that art, poetry, schools, and theology are integral components of a successful democracy, as they reflect the values and beliefs of the society. Therefore, democracy must prioritize the development of its own cultural institutions in order to truly establish itself as a successful system.