Emerson

Navindu Suriyaperuma

Literary Boston 19th Century

2/27/14

The most recent text is called Nature by Ralph Waldo Emerson. During the first part of reading into this, it becomes evident in the introduction what aspects he dislikes about the current belief in God. Emerson states that in order to really know the relationship between the Nature, the universe, god, and yourself, you must look at the world that surrounds you. In addition to this, one’s own life experiences must be accounted for. Further proof of this is given by the fact that Emerson’s claim that nature and spirit are both key parts of the universe. Emerson then goes on to talk about our view and perception of nature, how there are certain elements that lets us perceive nature. Emerson talks about the “transparent eyeball” within this idea. This idea states that one will forget the misery’s that falls upon them if they become captivated. That by becoming this, they will be able to feel the rest of the universe working with them and see the picture of the interactions between everything. After this, Emerson talks shortly about commodity and how it is useful only when needed to be used but not in excess. Following this, a lot of explanation about Beauty and the presentation of Nature are given to us by Emerson. By using the unique structure of the eye and viewing the whole picture, the best possibly glimpse of the world is achieved. Emerson presents 3 properties that explain and show natural beauty. The first property he presents is an idea of “relation,” this means the relationship one is able to have when true beauty is perceived in nature. How one feels the universe working with them and therefore invigorating them. Second is the enhancement of the spiritual connection, the idea that actions before are able to be seen at a much higher virtuosity due to the relationship that is now there with nature. The last and final point he makes is about true beauty, about art that nature gives. How humans are...