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Self Reliance Rhetorical Analysis

573 Words3 Pages

The American Philosopher, Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote Self-Reliance as an inspirational essay that has inspired many lives with his influential words. Emerson tries to deliver a message to every individual by persuading them to make their own rules, and not to follow society’s rules. Ralph Waldo Emerson has become the inspiration of America with the wise words he shares with humanity. Moreover, he pictures a whole different world, where every individual is accepted by society. But, in today’s society it can cause many conflicts between people.
Most people aren’t comfortable expressing their way of being in front of other people because they believe that society will automatically judge them. There have been times where it has happened and consequently it frightens individuals. What Emerson was trying to persuade is to take away the fear and motivate people to be able to reveal their true self to society. For instance, in Self-Reliance, Emerson states, “Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string” (270). This emphasizes how Emerson encourages people to accept themselves, and avoid judgments from others. Sometimes individuals tend to doubt themselves, but all they need to do is trust themselves in whatever it is they want to pursue in life. …show more content…

For example, the American Philosopher states, “The foolish face of praise, the forced smile which we put on in a company where we do not feel at ease in answer to conversation does not interest us” (Emerson 273). In other words, if someone that doesn’t like you smiles at you and you don’t have the intention to do it back, just simply don’t do it. Reason being you’ll end up being a hypocrite just like them. Emerson’s view on individuals is that they should just express themselves how they want without being concerned about society. In today’s world speaking your mind can get you in some trouble with other

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