That man's best works should be such bungling imitations of Nature's infinite perfection, matters not much; but that he should make himself an imitation, this is the fact which Nature moans over, and deprecates beseechingly. Be spontaneous, be truthful, be free, and thus be individuals! is the song she sings through warbling birds, and whispering pines, and roaring waves, and screeching winds.

Summary

This quote highlights that Nature values and cherishes individuality and authenticity. It suggests that human beings, although incapable of creating works as perfect as Nature's, should strive to be true to themselves and not mere imitations of others. Nature, represented through various elements like birds, trees, waves, and winds, encourages humans to embrace spontaneity, truthfulness, and freedom in order to be unique and genuine individuals. The quote implies that it is in these qualities that one can find harmony with the natural world.

Topics