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The Meaning Of Transcendentalism

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What is the main meaning of Transcendentalism? Transcendentalism is a philosophical movement that happened in the late 1800s to 1830s in the Eastern United states. Transcendentalism is the way of thinking for yourself, being self reliant due to the conformity in society. Transcendentalism has an influence on music in modern culture, which can be seen when comparing
Ralph Waldo Emerson's use of it and Jimmy Cliffs way of using Transcendentalism. In his essay, “Self-Reliance,” Emerson states: “That he must take himself for better, for worse, as his portion.” Emerson explains in this that, man cannot rely on anyone else but himself whether it's in a good situation or bad. Making sure you don't get caught up in take advantage of course. Heading to Jimmy cliff (who which is a reggae artist) quotes in his song, “Harder they come,” says: “And I keep on fighting for the things I want”. It's pretty obvious in the text what he's saying, but he technically says that he keeps fighting by himself for the things not only what he wants but needs also. Society blocks him from accomplishing and fighting for his wants, yet again not relying on others. Emerson and Cliff explain the same things about being self reliant and none dependant on people in society. Doing what they need to do to accomplish or fight for wants. Looking at another quote from Emerson in the same essay, states: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen, philosophers and divines”.

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