Transcendetalism- A Comparision of Emerson and Thoreau

Ralph Waldo Emerson: Nature Crossing a bare common, in snow puddles, at twilight, under a clouded sky, without having in my thoughts any occurrence of special good fortune, I have enjoyed perfect exhilaration. Almost I fear to think how glad I am. In the woods too, a man casts off his years, as the snake his slough, and at what period soever of life, is always a child. In the woods, is perpetual youth. Henry …

…of nature and individualism. Both Thoreau and Emerson were important Transcendental writers who shaped the culture and thinking of America today. Their influence can be seen in all parts of society today, from the individualistic clothing styles to the new self-help therapy books. In conclusion, Emerson, the “father” of Transcendentalism, as a whole, was a more effective writer. Thoreau, although a great essayist and writer, did not succeed in surpassing Emerson in his writing styles.