'Tis very certain that each man carries in his eye the exact indication of his rank in the immense scale of men, and we are always learning to read it. A complete man should need no auxiliaries to his personal presence.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Emerson argues that a person's social standing is visibly reflected in their demeanor and eyes, and a truly complete individual should command respect without needing external aids.
- In plain terms
- Your eyes show your place in society, and a complete person needs no props to be respected.
- What can you take from it?
- Cultivate personal presence so you stand on your own merit.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does your presence say about you?
- Do you rely on external markers?
Another view
Not everyone has the privilege to project status visibly.
More from Ralph Waldo Emerson
The highest compact we can make with our fellow, is, - 'Let there be truth between us two forevermore.'
Permalink to quote #213 God said, I am tired of kings, I suffer them no more; Up to my ear the morning brings The outrage of the poor.
Permalink to quote #215 Fine manners need the support of fine manners in others, and this is a gift interred only by the self.
Permalink to quote #212
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