Lucretians

[Stephwin]

If lucrum, from the Latin means gain, why are Pater, Whitman, Elliot, Emerson, Stevens labled Lucretians?
What is a Lucretian?
Is it sort of about nuance?
Philosophy?

Stephwin
(slowly being driven mad for knowledge)

[HowardM2]

Lucretius (http://www.utm.edu/research/iep/l/lucretiu.htm).

[Stephwin]

Thanks Howard
Can you tell me what the opposite/contrast of this would be?
I'm understanding the thought associated with Emerson to Whitman to Stevens but would understand better if an opposite to Lucretius was made known. That's how I learn better.
Any ideas?