The Mountain And The Squirrel
Summary of The Mountain and the Squirrel by Ralph Waldo Emerson:
"The Mountain and the Squirrel" is a poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson that was first published in 1846. In this work, Emerson reflects on the relationship between the natural world and human beings, using the image of a squirrel and a mountain to illustrate his point. The poem opens with the squirrel hoarding nuts and seeds, while the mountain looks down on him with a sense of detachment. The poem then goes on to suggest that humans are similarly focused on hoarding wealth and power, while nature remains indifferent to their efforts. The poem ends with the suggestion that humans would be better off taking a cue from nature, and embracing the values of simplicity and contentment. "The Mountain and the Squirrel" is considered a classic example of Emerson's philosophical and literary style, and continues to be widely read and studied today.
from: Emerson, Ralph Waldo. Early Poems of Ralph Waldo Emerson. New York, Boston, Thomas Y. Crowell & Company: 1899. Introduction by Nathan Haskell Dole.
The mountain and the squirrel
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
"Little prig."
Bun replied,
"You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I'm not so large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry:
I'll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track.
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put;
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut."
Ralph Waldo Emerson left the ministry to pursue a career in writing and public speaking. Emerson became one of America's best known and best-loved 19th-century figures.
More About Emerson
Emerson Quotes
"Every man has his own courage, and is betrayed because he seeks in himself the courage of other persons."
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
– Ralph Waldo Emerson