Admonition Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
“I read the other day some verses written by an eminent painter which were original and not conventional. The soul always hears an admonition in such lines, let the subject be what it may. The sentiment they instil is of more value than any thought they may contain. To believe your own thought, to believe that what is true for you in your private heart is true for all men, - that is genius.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Self-Reliance, 1841
The quote celebrates original, heartfelt expression over conventional thought, urging trust in personal truth as universal insight.
In simple terms: Original feeling beats conventional ideas.
Key Takeaway
Trust your inner truth.
Themes
individualism
creativity
truth
genius
Mood
inspired
reflective
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- writing
- art criticism
- personal reflection
- public speaking
Key Concepts
self-reliance
subjectivity
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish personal truth from bias?
- When should you seek external validation?
A Different Perspective
May overlook external evidence or diverse perspectives.
![“Reprehension is a kind of middle thing betwixt admonition and correction: it is sharpe admonition, but a milde correction. It is rather to be used because it may be a meanes to prevent strokes and blowes, especially in ingenuous and good natured children. [Blows are] the last remedy which a parent…” quote by William Gouge](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8b8/william-gouge-47709_admonition_reprehension-is-a-kind-of-middle-thing-b_174332.jpg)
