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Art Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson

“It is in the stomach of plants that development begins, and ends in the circles of the universe. 'Tis a long scale from the gorilla to the gentleman,--from the gorilla to Plato, Newton, Shakespeare,--to the sanctities of religion, the refinements of legislation, the summit of science, art, and…” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“It is in the stomach of plants that development begins, and ends in the circles of the universe. 'Tis a long scale from the gorilla to the gentleman,--from the gorilla to Plato, Newton, Shakespeare,--to the sanctities of religion, the refinements of legislation, the summit of science, art, and poetry. The beginnings are slow and infirm, but it is an always accelerated march.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

Source Essay: Nature, 1836

Human development mirrors natural cycles, starting from humble origins and expanding toward complex achievements across disciplines.

In simple terms: Growth starts small and expands outward.

Key Takeaway

Recognize humble beginnings.

Themes

growth nature human potential

Mood

thoughtful philosophical inspirational

Type

essay philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • career development
  • scientific research
  • artistic creation

Key Concepts

evolution interconnectedness progress

Questions to Reflect On

  • What small steps lead to great achievements?
  • How does nature reflect human progress?
A Different Perspective

May simplify complex histories.

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