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Common Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson

“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. I am glad to the brink of fear.” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“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. I am glad to the brink of fear.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

Source Essay: "Nature", 1836

The speaker feels intense joy and a thrill of fear while walking in a bleak, snowy twilight, finding exhilaration without needing luck.

In simple terms: Joyful exhilaration in bleakness.

Key Takeaway

Embrace moments of fear for deeper joy.

Themes

nature exhilaration fear solitude

Mood

reflective introspective poetic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • winter walks
  • sunset hikes
  • creative contemplation
  • mindful meditation

Key Concepts

transcendence mindfulness existential awe

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you seek similar exhilaration in everyday life?
  • What role does fear play in your joy?
A Different Perspective

The feeling may be fleeting and tied to specific conditions.

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