Self-reliance and Other Essays

This first collection of Emerson's essays has influenced a host of thinkers and intellectuals since its first appearance in 1841. 'Self-Reliance' is undoubtedly the collection's most famous essay, a piece in which Emerson argues that one must put a wholehearted trust in the power of one's own intuition, and not hold to orthodox opinions merely because the mass of people believe them to be true. But the prestige surrounding this work has tended to obscure the breadth of Emerson's vision: in the twelve essays in 'Series One' he invites us to consider a wide range of topics, from the true nature of 'Friendship', 'Heroism' and 'Love', to the high-flown philosophy of 'Spiritual Laws' and 'The Over-Soul'.