Each age, it is found, must write its own books; or rather, each generation for the next succeeding

Each age, it is found, must write its own books; or rather, each generation for the next succeeding

Ralph Waldo Emerson, a prominent American essayist, lecturer, and poet, believed in the importance of individualism and self-reliance. One of his famous quotes, “Each age, it is found, must write its own books; or rather, each generation for the next succeeding,” reflects his belief in the idea that each generation has a unique perspective and experiences that shape the literature they produce.

Emerson believed that each generation has a responsibility to create literature that reflects their own values, beliefs, and experiences. He argued that it is through this process of self-expression that a generation can truly understand itself and leave a lasting impact on future generations. In other words, each generation must write its own books in order to pass on its wisdom, knowledge, and insights to the next generation.

Emerson’s belief in the importance of each generation writing its own books can be seen in his own works. His essays, such as “Self-Reliance” and “Nature,” reflect his belief in the power of individualism and the importance of trusting one’s own instincts and intuition. Emerson’s writing is a product of his time, reflecting the values and beliefs of the Transcendentalist movement in 19th-century America.

Emerson’s idea that each generation must write its own books also speaks to the idea of progress and evolution. He believed that each generation builds upon the knowledge and insights of the previous generation, creating a continuous cycle of growth and development. By writing their own books, each generation contributes to the collective wisdom of humanity, adding to the ongoing conversation about what it means to be human and how we can live meaningful and fulfilling lives.