An aphorism is a short memorable saying that states a truth.
My personal favorite aphorism in "Self-Reliance" is the following:
Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string.
The imagery of that statement sticks in the memory: trusting yourself comes from the heart, not the head. Also, when you trust yourself, it does tend to feel that you are vibrating energetically. In addition, likening trusting oneself to an "iron string" is a reminder than believing in yourself is a source of strength.
Another favorite is:
envy is ignorance ... imitation is suicide.
Emerson is saying briefly that when we want what another person has, we are unaware of what that person is inside (therefore, we're ignorant), and also, we are not looking inside ourselves to find out what we really need (again, we are ignorant). Envy should encourage us not to ape another person, but to discover what envy tells us about ourselves. "Imitation is suicide" states strongly and unequivocally that we kill our souls when we follow others. Stating these truths so strongly and baldly helps them stick.
Nothing can bring you peace but yourself.
This comes near the end of the essay and is a fine summation of Emerson's thought. Many sages and religious figures say the same: true peace of mind comes from being true to oneself.
This aphorism is not my favorite, but so famous that I will include it as a bonus:
A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds.
The quote means we can and should feel free to change our minds. There is no shame in that, as long as we are true to ourselves.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.