Ralph Waldo Emerson

Read the excerpt from Ralph Waldo Emerson's Nature. But if a man would be alone, let him look at the stars. The rays that come from those heavenly worlds, will separate between him and what he touches. One might think the atmosphere was made transparent with this design, to give man, in the heavenly bodies, the perpetual presence of the sublime. Seen in the streets of cities, how great they are! If the stars should appear one night in a thousand years, how would men believe and adore; and preserve for many generations the remembrance of the city of God which had been shown! But every night come out these envoys of beauty, and light the universe with their admonishing smile. The stars awaken a certain reverence, because though always present, they are inaccessible; but all natural objects make a kindred impression, when the mind is open to their influence. Emerson claims that stars are similar to dreams by stating they are

"always present, they are inaccessible"

Which best summarizes the role of conversation expressed in Society and Solitude?

Conversation has the power to either affirm or destroy the connections between people.

Which statement best describes Emerson's opinion of communities, according to the first paragraph of Society and Solitude?

Regardless of how tightly bound communities may seem, each person is ultimately alone.

How does the relationship between "man and vegetable" described in paragraph five of Chapter I of Nature support the piece's central idea?

It suggests that the relationship between humans and nature is mystical but also unquestionable.

Which statement best describes how the author's purpose differs in Chapter I of Nature and Society and Solitude?

Nature portrays the world of nature as superior to the social world, while Society and Solitude argues that nature can help individuals be more content within society.

How is the concept of solitude portrayed in both Society and Solitude and Chapter I of Nature?

Solitude is viewed as a source of strength.

Which statement would be included in a summary of the first paragraph of Chapter I of Nature?

The stars at night are beautiful but sometimes unappreciated.

Which statement best summarizes the fourth paragraph of Chapter I of Nature?

Truly experiencing and absorbing the beauty of nature can have a healing effect on the mind and body.