Meditations of Ralph Waldo Emerson

Book excerpt: Carry Ralph Waldo Emerson’s wisdom with you in this inspirational guide that features 60 of his most insightful quotes. As an “adventuring heretic,” Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) challenged comfortable assumptions about nature, scientific understanding, and divine intelligence. The Sage of Concord’s writings continue to inspire and influence new generations of thinkers and readers as he bridges the wild places of the heart and intellect. In Meditations of Ralph Waldo Emerson, editor Chris Highland pairs 60 Emerson passages with inspirational quotes from historical and contemporary luminaries as diverse as Margaret Fuller, the Dalai Lama, and Jack Kerouac. Take this pocket-size guide with you on backpacks, nature hikes, and camping trips. Let Emerson’s words enrich your experience as you ponder the wilderness from riverbank, mountaintop, or as you relax beside your campfire. Inside you’ll find: 60 inspiring Ralph Waldo Emerson quotes Selections of text from other philosophical minds Short excerpts for convenient reading This portable sampler of 60 selections—from 30 years of Emerson’s writings—reveals the essence of Emerson’s spiritual vision. Journey into the mind and heart of this great 19th century author, poet, and philosopher whose writings remain relevant and inspiring today.