Emerson self-reliance and nature
爱默生
Nature
Essay “Nature” was published in 1936, was considered “manifesto（宣言 ） of American transcendentalism”, standing for a new way of thinking in America. Contents: introduction 8 chapters: nature, commodity, beauty, language, discipline, idealism, spirit and prospects.
谢谢观赏
Ideas of Transcendentalism 1, the emphasis on oversoul（超灵）: allpervading power for goodness, omnipresent( 无所不在）, omnipotent（无所不能） 2, the importance of individual — “ Selfreliance” 3, perception of nature as symbol of the oversoul — “ Nature”
Analysis
Part Ⅰ(1-6): Trust thyself
1 P1:The importance of thinking for oneself 2
P2:“Trust thyself” P3:The force of infancy and youth P4:The analogy between boys and the idealized individual P5:The importance of an individuals resisting the pressure to conform to the external norms P6:The necessity to follow one’s inner voice,
爱默生 nature读后感
爱默生 nature读后感英文回答：Nature is a philosophical essay written by Ralph Waldo Emerson. In this essay, Emerson explores the concept of nature and its relationship with humanity. He argues that nature is a source of inspiration and spiritual enlightenment.Emerson begins the essay by stating that nature is a reflection of the divine and that it is a source of truth and beauty. He believes that by immersing ourselves in nature, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Nature, according to Emerson, is a teacher that can guide us towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.One of the main themes in Nature is the idea of self-reliance. Emerson encourages individuals to trust their own instincts and intuition, rather than relying on societalnorms and expectations. He believes that by connecting with nature, we can tap into our own inner wisdom and live authentically.Emerson also emphasizes the importance of solitude and contemplation. He argues that spending time alone in nature allows us to reconnect with our true selves and find inner peace. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it is easy to lose touch with our own thoughts and emotions. Nature provides a sanctuary where we can escape from the noise and distractions of the world and find solace in silence.Furthermore, Emerson highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings. He believes that every part of nature is connected and that humans are part of a larger web of life. This interconnectedness should inspire us to treat nature with respect and care. Emerson urges us to see ourselves as stewards of the Earth, responsible for preserving its beauty and harmony.In conclusion, Nature by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a thought-provoking essay that explores the significance ofnature in our lives. Through his eloquent writing, Emerson urges us to reconnect with nature, trust our own instincts, and live authentically. By immersing ourselves in nature,we can find inspiration, wisdom, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.中文回答：《自然》是拉尔夫·沃尔多·爱默生所写的一篇哲学性的文章。
爱默生作品的英文作文
爱默生作品的英文作文Ralph Waldo Emerson was a prolific writer and philosopher whose works continue to resonate with readers today. His essays and speeches explore a wide range of topics, from nature and self-reliance to the importance of individualism and the pursuit of truth. Emerson's writing style is characterized by its eloquence, depth, andthought-provoking ideas.In his essay "Nature," Emerson celebrates the beauty and power of the natural world. He encourages readers to connect with nature and find solace and inspiration in its presence. Emerson's vivid descriptions and poetic language transport the reader to the serene landscapes he describes, making them feel as if they are experiencing nature firsthand.Emerson's essay "Self-Reliance" is a powerful call to embrace one's individuality and reject societal conformity. He urges readers to trust their own instincts and beliefs,rather than relying on the opinions and expectations of others. Emerson's bold and assertive language challenges readers to question the status quo and forge their own path in life.In "The American Scholar," Emerson explores the role of the intellectual and the importance of education. He argues that true learning comes from personal experience and self-reflection, rather than simply absorbing information from books. Emerson's passionate and persuasive languageinspires readers to think critically and pursue knowledge for the sake of personal growth and enlightenment.Emerson's essay "The Over-Soul" delves into the concept of a universal spiritual essence that connects all living beings. He suggests that by tapping into this higher power, individuals can achieve a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Emerson's mystical and metaphysical language invites readers to explore their own spirituality and seek a greater sense of purpose and connection.Emerson's works are not only intellectually stimulating but also emotionally resonant. His essays are filled with profound insights and philosophical musings that provoke deep reflection and contemplation. Emerson's ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and concise manner is a testament to his mastery of language and rhetoric.Overall, Emerson's works continue to captivate readers with their timeless wisdom and poetic beauty. His writings inspire us to embrace our individuality, connect with nature, seek knowledge, and explore our spirituality. Emerson's unique writing style and thought-provoking ideas make him a literary icon whose works will continue to be cherished and studied for generations to come.。
爱默生作品nature英文简介
爱默生作品nature英文简介Ralph Waldo Emerson's essay "Nature" was published in 1836 and is regarded as one of the foundational texts of the transcendentalist movement in American literature. In this essay, Emerson explores the relationship between humans and nature, advocating for a closer connection to the natural world.Emerson argues that nature is a source of inspiration and spiritual renewal for humans. He suggests that by immersing oneself in nature, individuals can experience a sense ofunity with the universe and tap into their own inherent divinity. According to Emerson, nature can provide solace and bring harmony to one's soul.Emerson also emphasizes the importance of individuality and self-reliance, cautioning against conformity and blind adherence to societal norms. He urges his readers to followtheir own intuition and embrace their unique thoughts and ideas. Nature, for Emerson, serves as a direct incentive for cultivating individuality and pursuing personal growth.Furthermore, Emerson discusses the concept of "oversoul" in this essay, which refers to a universal spirit or divine essence that transcends individual existence. He suggeststhat by seeking harmony with nature, humans can tap into this higher consciousness and gain a deeper understanding oflife's purpose.Overall, "Nature" is an essay that encourages readers to embrace the beauty of the natural world, explore their own individuality, and strive for a deeper spiritual connection with the universe. It laid the groundwork for the transcendentalist movement and continues to inspire readers to this day.。
英语专业美国文学复习资料。
1.The History of American literatureThe literature of Colonial American (1607-1765)The literature of Reason and Revolution(1765—18世纪末）The literature of Romanticism（1800—1865）The literature of Realism（1865—1918）The literature of Modernism（1918－1945）The contemporary literature (1945－Now)2.Benjamin Franklin The AutobiographyThat good fortune, when I reflected on it, which is frequently the case, has induced me something to say that were it left to my choice, I should have no objection to go over the same life from its beginning to the end, only asking the advantage authors have of correcting in a second edition some faults of the first.3.Thomas Jefferson The Declaration of IndependenceWe hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.4.Edgar Allan Poe The Cask of AmontilladoI must not only punish, but punish with impunity. A wrong is unredressed when retribution overtakes its redresser. It is equally unredressed when the avenger fails to make himself felt as such to him who has done the wrong.5.Washington Irving Rip Van Winkle ( The Sketch Book )“Every change of season, every change of weather, indeed, every hour of the day, produces some change in the magical hues and shapes of these mountains, and they are regarded by all the good wives, far and near, as perfect barometers. When the weather is fair and settled, they are clothed in blue and purple, and print their bold outlines on the clear evening sky; but, sometimes, when the rest of the landscape is cloudless, they will gather a hood of gray vapors about their summits, which, in the last rays of the setting sun, will glow and light up like a crown of glory.”Interpretations of Rip Van WinkleA New Critical Approach: A peaceful village before Revolution Natural world in the mountains ; A noisy world after revolution ------Irving was unwilling to accept a modern democratic America ------both Rip and Irving prefer the past and a dream-like worldA Feminist Approach : Rip is a good person with more advantages than disadvantages, and readers always show sympathy on him because he has such bad-tempered wife. It seems that he has good reason to go out from his family. He was forced to go out .In fact , Rip: a lazy ,foolish man,an irresponsible father,a hard-hearted husband.His wife :a hard-working ,thrift woman, a kind ,responsible mother, an able, brave woman.6.Summit of Romanticism (American Transcendentalism)Emerson Nature & Self-RelianceThoreau WaldenNature : Standing on the bare ground, -- my head bathed by the blithe air, and uplifted into infinite space, -- all mean egotism vanishes. I become a transparent eye-ball; I am nothing; I see all; the currents of the Universal Being circulate through me; I am part or particle of God. The name of the nearest friend sounds then foreign and accidental: to be brothers, to be acquaintances, -- master or servant, is then a trifle and a disturbance. I am the lover of uncontained and immortal beauty. In the wilderness, I find something more dear and connate than in streets or villages.Self Reliance:Whoso would be a man, must be a nonconformist.It is easy in the world to live after the world's opinion; it is easy in solitude to live after our own; but the great man is he who in the midst of the crowd keeps with perfect sweetness the independence of solitude.Walden:1 A man is rich in proportion to the number of things which he can afford to let alone.2 I have frequently seen a poet withdraw , having enjoyed the most valuable part of a farm, while the crusty farmers supposed that he had got a few apples only.3 The hollow and lichen-covered apple trees, gnawed by rabbits, showing what kind of neighbors I should have.4 But I would say to my fellows, once for all, as long as possible live free and uncommitted. It makes but little difference whether you are committed to a farm or the country jail.5 As I have said , I do not propose to write an ode to dejection, but to brag as lustily as chanticleer in the morning, standing on his roost, if only to wake my neighbors up.6 The morning wind forever blows, the poem of creation is uninterrupted; but few are the ears that hear it.7 The Harivansa says,“An abode without birds is like a meat without seasoning.”such was not my abode, for I found myself suddenly neighbor to the birds, not by having imprisoned one, but having caged myself near them8 “There was a shepherd that did live, And held his thoughts as high .As were the mounts whereon his flocks. Did hourly feed his by”What should we think of the shepherd’s life if his flocks always wandered to higher pastures than his thoughts?Purpose : 1.escaping the effects of the Industrial Revolution by leading to a simpler life.2.simplifying life and reducing expenditures, increasing writings time3.putting into practice the Transcendentalist beliefIdeas : 1. the inner virtue and inward, spiritual grace of man.2 .was very critical of modern civilization.3.spiritual richness is real wealth7.Hawthorne The Scarlet LetterHester Prynne--1.confesses her guilty, faces the future optimistically，helps others2. able to construct her life, wins a moral success3. moral growth-----angelDimmesdale----1.hides his guilty first2.undergoes the physical and spiritual tormentsChillingworth--morally degrades by his pursuit of revengePearl----1, it means treasure ( the treasure to her mother. )2, Came out of an ugly shell but is beautifulTheme: 1 Don’t intend to tell a love story2 assumes the universalityof guilty3 explores the complexities and ambiguities of man’s choices4 focuses his attention on the moral, emotional, and psychological effects of the sin on the people.8.Longfellow A Paslm of Life / The Tide Rises, the Tide Falls / I shot an Arrow / My Lost Youth / The Rainy DayThe tide rises,The Tide Falls (1879)The tide rises, the tide falls, The twilight darkens, the curlew calls;Along the sea-sands damp and brown, The traveler hastens toward the town,And the tide rises, the tide falls.Darkness settles on roofs and walls,But the sea in the darkness calls;The little waves, with their soft white hands,Efface the footprints in the sands,And the tide rises, the tide falls.The morning breaks; the steeds in their stalls, Stamp and neigh, as the hostler calls;The day returns, but nevermore . Returns the traveler to the shore,And the tide rises, the tide falls.My Lost YouthOften I think of the beautiful townThat is seated by the sea;Often in thought go up and downThe pleasant streets of that dear old town,And my youth comes back to me.And a verse of a Lapland songIs haunting my memory still'A boy's will is the wind's will,And the thoughts of youth are long, long thoughtsI shot an arrowI shot an arrow into the air, It fell to earth, I knew not where;For, so swiftly it flew, the sight. Could not follow it in its flight.I breathed a song into the air, It fell to earth, I knew not where;For who has sight so keen and strong,That it can follow the flight of song?Long, long afterward, in an oak. I found the arrow, still unbroken;And the song, from beginning to end,I found again in the heart of a friend.9.Edgar Allan Poe To Helen Annabel Lee “The Raven”For the moon never beams without bringing me dreamsOf the beautiful ANNABEL LEE ；And the stars never rise but I see the bright eyesOf the beautiful ANNABEL LEE ；And so，all the night-tide , I lie down by the sideOf my darling —my darling —my life and my bride，In her sepulcher there by the sea—，In her tomb by the sounding sea.10.Emily Dickinson I Started Early-Took My Dog- I am NobodyTo Make a Prairie Success is counted sweetestI started Early -- Took my Dog -- And visited the Sea --The Mermaids in the Basement Came out to look at me --And Frigates -- in the Upper Floor Extended Hempen Hands --Presuming Me to be a Mouse -- Aground -- upon the Sands --But no Man moved Me -- till the Tide Went past my simple Shoe --And past my Apron -- and my Belt -- And past my Bodice -- too --And made as He would eat me up --As wholly as a Dew Upon a Dandelion's Sleeve --And then -- I started -- too -- And He -- He followed -- close behind --I felt his Silver Heel Upon my Ankle -- Then my ShoesWould overflow with Pearl --Until We met the Solid Town -- No One He seemed to know --And bowing -- with a Might look -- At me -- The Sea withdrew --1 The speaker is extremely frightened by the sea.2.The speaker also seems attracted to the sea.3. The speaker runs to town to escape the sea.4. She has a conflicted relationship to the sea.5. she is attracted to sth that frightens her---her self consciousness may mean she has some desire about which she feels guilty.Water, The seaThe unconscious, the emotions, the desire, the sexuality.The speaker’s conflicted attitude toward the sea implies a conflicted attitude toward sex (sex both attract and frightens her)11.Whitman Leaves of Grass One's Self I Sing O Captain! My Captain(free verse)The "ship" is intended to represent the United States of America, while its "fearful trip" recalls the troubles of the American Civil War. The "Captain" is Lincoln himself. (metaphor ) Rrhyme scheme : a a b b c d e d12.Mark Twain (realism) The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras CountyThe Adventure of Tom Sawyer13.Naturalism Theodore Sister CarrieStephen Crane The Open Boat1. Sister CarrieOh, Carrie, Carrie! Oh, blind strivings of the human heart! Onward, onward, it saith(say), and where beauty leads, there it follows. Whether it be the tinkle of a lone sheep bell o‘er some quiet landscape, or the glimmer of beauty in sylvan places, or the show of soul in some passing eye, the heart knows and makes answer, following. It is when the feet weary and hope seems vain that the heartaches and the longings arise. Know, then, that for you is neither surfeit(过量）nor content. In your rocking-chair, by your window dreaming, shall you long, alone. In your rocking-chair, by your window, shall you dream such happiness as you may never feel.2. The Open BoatNaturalism in the story1,The indifference of natureThe oiler was the most skilled and capable manIf nature were just, The oiler would be the last of the four men who should have died. The oiler’s death and lack of explanation surrounding it reinforce the randomness of nature’s whims and symbolize the indifference of nature toward manIn the story a bird watches them and is completely indifferent.2,The survival of the fittestWhile the cook, captain, and correspondent all depend on a manmade or naturally occurring device to help them to the shore, the oiler goes it alone, relying only on his human strength and not on his more evolved capacity for thought and strategy.The “fittest”are the men who have relied on man’s ability to intelligently adapt and create.3,Man’s insignificance and aloneness in the universeThey think the man sees them. Then they think they see two men, then a crowd and perhaps a boat being rolled down to the shore. They stubbornly think that help is on the way as the shadows lengthen and the sea and sky turn black.14.Sherwood Anderson The Triumph of The EggThe Egg’s Symbolic Meanings :1.The Egg: The Robber2.The Egg: Beautiful But Fragile American Dream3 The Egg: The Old Unsolved Riddle15.Anne Porter The Jilting of Granny Weatherall (Stream-of-Consciousness Narration)16.F. Scott Fitzgerald The Great GatsbyEast Egg represents the established aristocracy, West Egg the self-made richThe unrestrained desire for money and pleasure surpassed more noble goals.Do you think Gatsby deserves to be called “the great”?It is complicated to say Gatsby deserves to be “great”or not.For one thing, Gatsby’s capacity to dream makes him “great”. Gatsby was ambitious, hardworking, generous and passionate. He was so extremely loyal to his love Daisy that he could do anything to get Daisy back: he did shady business to earn money and social position; he threw luxurious parties just to draw Daisy’s attention; he could take the blame for a death that he did not cause. Gatsby never gave up his idealistic dream while striving for material joy. Gatsby kept on making efforts to balance the both sides. In this respect, he is great.For another thing, Gatsby never realized that Daisy wasn’t the girl he loved anymore. He is not so wise and he can not see the people clearly. Gatsby was so innocent that he staked everything on his dreams, not realizing that his dreams are unworthy of him. In this respect, He wasn’t sober enough to be great.17.Ernest Hemingway (Iceberg theory)A Clean, Well-lighted Place The Old Man and The Sea18.Modern Poetry ImagismPound In a Station of the MetroWilliam Carlos Williams Spring and All The Red Wheelbarrow so much depends upon a red wheelbarrow glazed with rain water beside the white chickens.19.Robert FrostFire And IceThe Road Not TakenStopping by Woods on a Snowy EveningWhose woods these are I think I know.His house is in the village though; (woods 象征着大自然，而village 象征着人类社会)He will not see me stopping here,To watch his woods fill up with snow (snow --- purity )My little horse must think it queer，To stop without a farmhouse near,Between the woods and frozen lake，The darkest evening of the year.He gives his harness bells a shake, (he---My horse,Personification )To ask if there is some mistake.The only other sound’s the sweep, (Alliteration )Of easy wind and downy flake.The woods are lovely, dark and deep, (Alliteration )But I have promises to keep,And miles to go before I sleep,And miles to go before I sleep.Rhyme : interlocking enclosed rhyme (aaba ,bbcb,ccdc, dddd)Rhetorical DeviceAlliteration---sound & sleep; dark & deepPersonification “he”—horse “My little horse must think it queer.”Repetition (重复) “and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep.( Superficial meaning: there is still a long distance before the speaker arrives at home and sleeps. Implied meaning: there are still numerous responsibilities before the speaker’s life comes to an end.SymbolismWoods--The mystery of nature; the temptations in our lifeVillage & He (the owner of the woods)—Human world & societySnow--Something of purityPromises--The unavoidable responsibilities & obligationsMiles--Long distance; the heavy duty of lifeSleep--Rest during night; the end of life (death)I am on my way--The journey of life20.Eugene O’Neill Desire Under the Elms (Abbie,Eben,Ephraim, Simeon ,Peter)21.Toni Morrison Recitatif。
关于emerson的nature读后感
关于emerson的nature读后感英文版When I first read Emerson's "Nature," I was struck by the profound connection he draws between humanity and the natural world. Emerson's writing is both poetic and philosophical, inviting readers to contemplate their place in the universe and the interconnectedness of all living beings.One of the key themes in "Nature" is the idea that nature is a source of spiritual and intellectual inspiration. Emerson argues that by immersing ourselves in the beauty and majesty of the natural world, we can awaken our own inner creativity and intuition. He encourages us to see nature not as separate from ourselves, but as a reflection of our own innermost thoughts and feelings.Emerson also explores the concept of self-reliance in "Nature," urging readers to trust in their own instincts and beliefs. He believes that by following our own inner guidance, we can achieve a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. This idea of self-reliance is a powerful reminder that we have the ability to shape our own destinies and create our own paths in life.Overall, reading Emerson's "Nature" has been a transformative experience for me. It has deepened my appreciation for the natural world and inspired me to connect more deeply with my own inner self. Emerson's words are a reminder of the beauty and wonder that surrounds us, and the importance of living in harmony with nature.中文翻译当我第一次阅读爱默生的《自然》时，我被他所描绘的人类与自然界之间的深刻联系所震撼。
拉尔夫沃尔多爱默生节选英语读后感
拉尔夫沃尔多爱默生节选英语读后感Ralph Waldo Emerson was an American essayist, lecturer, philosopher, and poet who has left a lasting impact on literature and philosophy. His works, filled with insight and wisdom, continue to inspire readers today. In this essay, I will share my thoughts on selected writings by Emerson and how they have influenced my understanding of the world.One of the key themes in Emerson's writings is self-reliance. He believes that individuals should trust their own instincts and beliefs, rather than conforming to societal norms. This idea resonated with me, as I have often struggled with feeling pressure to fit in and follow the crowd. Emerson's emphasis on self-reliance encouraged me to embrace my uniqueness and follow my own path, even if it means going against the grain.Another important concept in Emerson's work is the idea of nature as a source of inspiration and spiritual growth. He believed that connecting with nature could lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. After reading Emerson's reflections on nature, I have started to spend more time outdoors, whether it's going for a hike in the woods or simply sitting in a park. I have found that being in nature helps me feelmore grounded and connected to something greater than myself.Emerson's writings also explore the concept of individualism and the importance of thinking for oneself. He encourages readers to question authority and conventional wisdom, and to forge their own path based on their own beliefs and values. This message has been empowering for me, as it has given me the confidence to trust my own judgment and not be swayed by external influences.Overall, reading Emerson's works has been a transformative experience for me. His insights into self-reliance, nature, and individualism have challenged me to think more deeply about my own beliefs and values. I have gained a greater appreciation for the power of introspection and the importance of living authentically. Emerson's words continue to inspire me to seek out my own path and to strive for personal growth and fulfillment.。
RalphWaldoEmerson爱默生作品赏析
语言简练有力，富有激情，具有强 烈的感染力。
《论美》
主题
探讨美的本质和意义。
内容
通过对美的不同表现形式的探讨，阐述作者对美的独特见解，强调 内在美的重要性。
艺术手法
运用丰富的比喻和形象的描绘，使作品具有很高的审美价值。
04
Emerson作品中的思想 内涵
超验主义思想
超验主义定义
超验主义是19世纪美国的一场思想运动，强调直觉、个人主义和内在的精神力 量。
02
对美国文化和思想产生了深远影响。
对后世作家如梭罗、惠特曼等人产生了重要影响。
03
02
Emerson作品风格
语言特点
01
02
03
简洁明了
Emerson的作品语言简练， 表达清晰，没有过多的修 辞和华丽辞藻，却能深入 人心。
富有哲理
他的文字富含深刻的哲理， 常常通过日常生活中的小 事来阐述人生的大道理。
02
1821年毕业于哈佛大学。
03
1836年开始担任波士顿第二教堂的牧师。
04
1838年辞去教职，开始独立写作和演讲生 涯。
文学成就
1836年发表第一部作品 《自然》。
1850年发表自传体散文集 《经历》。
1844年发表《论美》。 1857年发表《论历史》。
对后世影响
01
被誉为“美国文艺复兴之父”。
新视角
随着研究的深入，学者们开始从新的视角对Emerson的作品进行解读， 如生态批评、性别研究等。
研究展望
跨学科研究
未来对Emerson的研究将更加注重跨学科的 方法，如文学与哲学、文学与心理学等。
比较研究
未来可以将Emerson的作品与其他作家的作品进行 比较研究，以更深入地理解他的作品。
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This point of view shows that if these poor people are selfsupported, their living conditions would be better. Helping this kind of people is to do harm to them and make them more and more poor. At most time, the poor are lack of independent conducts, optimistic attitudes, and adventurous spirits. They have no innovative abilities, because they never think that they should challenge life and make progress. Therefore, in many aspects, the poor are lagged behind of the society.
The
confidence is an evident idea which
Emerson gave in self-reliance . He thought that the confidence was a very important virtue. The philosophical idea which he expressed in SelfReliance had its special power. It enlightened many people and catered to the spirit of optimism in America at that time.The author showed the idea that the man should own the spirit of selfconfidence and try to be the true himself.
According to Emerson's original words: “what I must do is all that concerns me, not what the people think”. Emerson thought that the people shouldn't be influenced by the others. Each one is the first who knows himself much. It is known that the only right is to conform to the man's own will, namely, the only wrong thing is what is against his own will. Emerson supported that the people insist on carrying themselves in the face of all opposition. The true self-independence is void of other's encouragement; prize is just as an auxiliary function for achievements
“The Independence” is
closely related with the spirit of self-reliance. The author mentioned “The Independence” eve rywhere in the works. Emerson supported the man to be the true himself independently. Each person should act according to what he thinks.
These words clearly prove the spirit of self-trust. There is a popular saying that “if you think you can, you can”. The confidence is the first step to make success. And Emerson showed the valuable idea in his works. It is believed that the readers are more confident after they finished Self-reliance.
For example, Emerson said in Self-reliance : “Let us never bow and apologize more. A great man is coming to eat at my house, I do not wish to please him; I wish that he should wish to please me”. On Emerson’s saying, it is known that he supported the man to be himself generously in spite of the other people’s social status. Once a person comes to the world, he is possible to be the best one. However, many people are generally timid, and they are no longer upright, they are afraid of saying “I think”, but only quote motto. As a matter of fact, Emerson encouraged the people to express “I think”, “I am” bravely and directly.
the
Showing no Sympathy to the Poor
This point of view agrees with the confidence and independence. Emerson indirectly showed the reason why the man is poor and why no sympathy should be showed to the poor. From SelfReliance, Emerson never sympathized with the person who had no relation with him. He just did what he should do.
My opinion
As a mater of fact, it is the man’s faith, not
environment that influences people’s li ves. A successful man is the one who deepl y trusts his inner power. He is never influenced by the environment.
He said: “Expect me not to show causes why I seek or why I exclude company. Then again, do not tell me, as a good man did today, of my obligation to put all poor men in good situations. Are they my poor? I tell your, your foolish philanthropist, that I grudge the dollar, the dime, the cent. I give to such men as do not belong to me and whom I do not belong.”
Emerson gave the readers a very typical example: “Infancy conforms to nobody, all conforms to it, so that one baby commonly makes four or fives out of adults who pattle and play to it”. It shows that if a man often keeps his own personality, he is able to make the environment different. The man's inner power is limitless; he is able to change the whole world if he stands on his own feet forever. Emerson always lived in his own world and never mixed with the man whom he did not belong to.
Theme of Self-Reliance
Be yourself. Trust your own inner voice.
The most important ideas
The
Confidence The Independence The Personality Showing no Sympathy to the Poor