Self-Reliance Questions and Answers
Self-Reliance
What does Emerson mean by "immortal palms" in his quote "he who would gather immortal palms must not be hindered by...
In Emerson's quote, "immortal palms" symbolize victory or achievements worthy of spiritual celebration. He suggests that to gain these victories, one must not be restricted by preconceived notions of...
Self-Reliance
What does the quote "Every heart is tuned to that string" mean in Emerson's "Self-Reliance"?
The quote "Every heart is tuned to that string" in Emerson's "Self-Reliance" means that each person should trust themselves, as every individual has a unique inner power and sense of self that guides...
Self-Reliance
What literary devices are used in "Self-Reliance"?
The literary devices used in "Self-Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson include allusion, simile, imagery, and hyperbole. Emerson frequently references historical, philosophical, religious, and literary...
Self-Reliance
What does Emerson mean by "...luster of the firmament of bards and sages" in "Self-Reliance"?
In "Self-Reliance," Emerson uses the phrase "luster of the firmament of bards and sages" as a metaphor to represent the collective wisdom of poets and philosophers, likened to stars illuminating the...
Self-Reliance
What are three memorable aphorisms from Emerson's "Self-Reliance"?
In "Self-Reliance," Emerson offers several memorable aphorisms. "Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string" emphasizes self-trust as a source of strength. "Envy is ignorance ......
Self-Reliance
What is the deep meaning of Emerson's quote, "Rainbows to follow the clouds" in Self-Reliance?
The phrase "rainbows to follow the clouds" means wishing for good things to come after bad times, as rainbows appear after rainstorms. However, this quote is likely not from Emerson's Self-Reliance...
Self-Reliance
What is society's main purpose according to Emerson in "Self-Reliance"?
In "Self-Reliance," Emerson argues that society's main purpose is to suppress individuality, likening it to a "joint-stock company" conspiring against personal freedom. He criticizes conformity and...
Self-Reliance
Examples of European Romanticism in Emerson's "Self-Reliance."
Examples of European Romanticism in Emerson's "Self-Reliance" include the emphasis on individual intuition and the celebration of personal freedom and self-expression. Emerson's focus on the inner...
Self-Reliance
What does the simile "words as hard as cannon balls" mean in "Self-Reliance"?
The simile "words as hard as cannon balls" in Emerson's "Self-Reliance" suggests speaking one's truth with power and conviction, comparable to the force of a cannonball. Emerson encourages...
Self-Reliance
What does Emerson mean by the relationship between man and the vegetable in "Self-Reliance"?
What Emerson is referring to when he alludes to the relationship between man and vegetable in "Self-Reliance" is that they are connected together as part of a greater cosmic whole. According to...
Self-Reliance
In "Self-Reliance," how does society influence people's values?
Society influences people's values by promoting conformity, which Emerson criticizes in "Self-Reliance." He argues that societal pressure leads individuals to adopt values that are not truly their...
Self-Reliance
Why, according to "Self-Reliance", is a rose's life more important than a man's?
In "Self-Reliance," that Emerson does not say the life of a rose is more important than the life of a man. However, he does state that a rose unfolds in a natural way, without relying on books or...
Self-Reliance
Who is the intended audience in Emerson's "Self-Reliance"?
Emerson's target audience in "Self-Reliance" is the American reading public, although his ideas arguably have a particular value to younger people.
Self-Reliance
What are some personification quotes from "Self-Reliance"?
In "Self-Reliance," Emerson uses personification to animate abstract concepts. He describes "the world" as punishing nonconformity and "society" as conspiring against individuality. He famously...
Self-Reliance
According to Emerson, what are two causes of self-doubt?
Emerson identifies self-doubt as arising from ignoring our inner voice and failing in initial endeavors. He argues that by constantly seeking inspiration from the past or future, we lose trust in the...
Self-Reliance
What does Emerson mean by "thousand-cloven tongue" and "same pitch of voice" in this quote?
Emerson uses "thousand-cloven tongue" to describe the universal spirit that is divided among many individuals, each with their unique voice. "Same pitch of voice" refers to speaking authentically...
Self-Reliance
What does Emerson compare the act of planting corn to?
Emerson compares the act of planting corn to the necessity of self-reliance and personal growth. He suggests that just as one must plant corn to reap its benefits, individuals must cultivate their...
Self-Reliance
What warning does Emerson issue in paragraph 30 of Self-Reliance?
In paragraph 30 of "Self-Reliance," Emerson warns against conforming to societal and familial expectations at the cost of one's own voice and identity. He cautions against living to appease others,...
Self-Reliance
Can you provide an anecdote from "Self-Reliance"?
In "Self-Reliance," Emerson shares an anecdote about his youth, illustrating his belief in self-reliance. He recalls a conversation with a religious adviser who questioned the source of his impulses....
Self-Reliance
What does the word "sacred" imply in line 21 of "Self-Reliance"?
In "Self-Reliance," the term "sacred" implies the utmost importance of personal integrity and self-reliance over external influences or societal norms. It signifies that one's own mind and nature...