The main idea Emerson is trying to convey to the reader is that people should not conform to society and be unique. Emerson first opens by stating “envy is ignorance [and] imitation is suicide…” (369). He is saying that people are ignorant to their gifts and are destroying them by conforming to what society wants them to be. He continues to explain that everyone “half expresses” themselves and are ashamed that their ideas are different. To rely on others' judgments is cowardly and will not give any inspiration or hope. If they resist conforming, they will feel accomplished carrying out their own ideas and live a happy meaningful life. Emerson wants a person to embrace their individualism, and trust the path that God has chosen for them. Emerson
