¶ … Self-Reliance by Ralph Waldo Emerson. Specifically, it will explain Emerson's main idea in the essay. "Self-Reliance" is a celebration of man's creative thought and a quest for harmony in life and the world. Man should listen to his own mind to understand the minds of all humankind.
Emerson wrote his essay to introduce people to his philosophy of transcendentalism. He believed man was a creative being, and he had to listen to his own mind to know what was true for himself and for all mankind. He wrote, "To believe your own thought, to believe that what is true for you in your private heart is true for all men -- that is genius" (Emerson), and this echoes his feelings of trusting one's own mind perfectly. Later he writes, "Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string" (Emerson), and this too indicates how man should trust his own instincts, his own mind, and his own heart to understand himself and those around him. Emerson's ideas were unique at the time, but they show an understanding of humankind and harmony that is still sought after today.
The ideas are very meaningful, especially in a world that it torn by conflict and misunderstanding. Emerson's ideas show how man can understand each other, while using his mind creatively and for a good, decent purpose. People are always happiest when they understand themselves, and Emerson indicates that with his philosophy. If more people would take the time to understand their own minds, they might understand the rest of the world better, and avoid more conflict and pain. These ideas are applicable to just about everyone, and I would like to use them in my own life to understand myself better, and make myself a better person. I think anytime you know what is in your heart and mind; you can share it with others, and perhaps help make the world a better place.
References
Emerson, Ralph Waldo. "Self-Reliance." EmersonCentral.com. 2004. 27 Nov. 2004.
< http://www.emersoncentral.com/self-reliance.htm >
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