Emerson quote response

"But we half express ourselves, and are ashamed by the divine idea which each of us represents." (page 17)


I believe that this quote is saying that most people only say part of what they are thinking, because they fear rejection and vulnurability. By saying all of what we believe, we put ourselves out there is a way that is scary and very diffiTcult. Not only dp we have to put our thoughts out there for everyone, but then other have the opportunity to tell us their opinion, but they can be harsh and inconsiderate when responding. People like to have control over others, and some domination can come in the form of dissing another persons ideas. After we express ourselves, we have so much to gain through sharing our insights, but once our ideas are out there, they are fragile and make us feel vulnerable.


"Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string." (page 17)

This shows how hearts are both strong and very fragile at the same time. We may have a strong will power to persevere, and that comes from putting a lot of heart into our actions. An iron string is an oxymoron, the iron being the tough exterior, the drive that keeps us going it the heard times. The string is the more fragile aspect of the heart. It is the side that we reveal to few, we keep it protected under that thick layer. Once we expose the delicate part of our hearts, that can not be taken back. Once this part of our soul is destroyed, it is hard to recover from. No matter how tough the outer layer of our hearts may be, once we show someone the inside, a part of them will always stay with you. This sounds incredibly corny. Haha. Anyway, we need to trust ourselves to know when that is acceptable, and when it is wise to keep our mouths shut.


"There are voices which we hear in solitude, but they grow faint and inaudible as we enter into the world." (page 17)

When we are alone, without the corruption of other ideas, what we think is original and remains untainted by the opinions of others. From the minute that we launch ourselves into mainstream culture, anything from what someone is wearing to what they are saying has the ability to change your view; your whole outlook on life. When you are mixing with anyone else, your thoughts are no longer fully pure, not wholly your own. When we enter into "the world", we have problems thinking our own thoughts, because following everyone else is so much easier and voicing your opinions could cause debate and disagreement. However, staying true to yourself amidst others with different views is admirable.

"For nonconformity the world whips you with its displeasure." (page 18)

Once you express an induvidual thought, you are subject to the cruel harassment of others. They may say what they please, because opinions are free, and if the majority is behind them, they will do what they want. Opposing views do not have to be based on fact, they just have to sound better than what you say, and other than that people will blindly follow. The ability to have a thought that remains unchanged even with the majority against you creates a stronger will power to hold on to.