Great men or men of great gifts you shall easily find, but symmetrical men never.
Interpretation
Emerson suggests that while we often find extraordinary individuals, truly balanced and well-rounded people are rare.
In this quote, Ralph Waldo Emerson reflects on the nature of greatness and balance in human character. He posits that while society may celebrate individuals with exceptional talents, achievements, or gifts, those who embody symmetry—meaning balance, moderation, and holistic development across various aspects of life—are much harder to encounter. This commentary invites readers to consider the value of being well-rounded over merely excelling in one area.
In practice
In a discussion about personal development, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of being well-rounded.
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Men cease to interest us when we find their limitations
Tis the good reader that makes the good book; a good head cannot read amiss: in every book he finds passages which seem confidences or asides hidden from all else and unmistakeably meant for his ear.
The world belongs to the energetic.
Hast thou named all the birds without a gun?
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Your representative owes you, not his industry only, but his judgment; and he betrays instead of serving you if he sacrifices it to your opinion.
When I see and feel the life beat of Spirit in every object, I evolve to a higher level of transformation called consciousness
Our culture peculiarly honors the act of blaming, which it takes as the sign of virtue and intellect.
In my view all salvation for philosophy may be expected to come from Darwin's theory
Africa is rich, and why are we poor then if our continent is rich. It is not right.
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