Emerson Essay -- Philosophy, Unapologetic Individualism

In understanding this quotation, it is absolutely essential to be cognizant of the context in which â€Å"Self-Reliance† was written. The philosophical and social movement that Emerson and his contemporaries founded, Transcendentalism, espoused the idea that although America had formally gained political independence, Europeans possessed virtually hegemonic control over the culture of America. Emerson and his contemporaries sought not only to pioneer a uniquely American style of literature, but also to forge a distinct culture and ethos independent from those of Europe. Emerson’s opinion that â€Å"imitation is suicide† (533) extends beyond the realm of the individual in that it is relevant to the Transcendentalists’ mission of establishing an autonomous American identity. He believes that by continuing to emulate European values and culture, Americans are essentially destroying their own chance of possessing a national identity. Emerson viewed self-relian ce, which can be understood as finding inspiration, judgment and validation of thoughts and ideas within oneself, as one of the central tenets of the fledgling American national identity. It may seem counterintuitive to think that Emerson, a proponent of radical and unapologetic individualism, desired to create a shared American identity and national unity; however, it is necessary to discern that nonconformity is not tantamount to the repudiation of society. By exalting nonconformity, he does not promote the hedonistic active pursuit of personal desires in spite of social norms, like an anarchist, but rather urges the reader to wholly fulfill their human potential. Consequently, the embracing of the self is not a consequence of free agency, but rather the fulfillment of their innate des... ...ay at home, to put itself in communication with the internal ocean, but it goes abroad to beg a cup of water of the urns of men† (543). This passage serves to inform the reader that the rewards gleaned from imitation pale in comparison to those that originate from oneself, in the same way that a cup of water seems infinitesimal relative to an ocean. This point is furthered by his numerous allusions to famed historical and literary figures who exemplify the fulfillment that can transpire only through illustrating Emerson’s command to â€Å"Insist on yourself; never imitate† (547). It is essential to ascertain that these references serve as examples of self-reliant individuals garnering great success rather than exalted heroes that one should strive to emulate, as Benjamin Franklin explicitly prescribes in his Autobiography: â€Å"Imitate Jesus and Socrates† (Franklin 285).