Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, Commodity,

Under the general name of Commodity, I rank all those advantages which our senses owe to nature. This, of course, is a benefit which is temporary and mediate, not ultimate, like its service to the soul. Yet although low, it is perfect in its kind, and is the only use of nature which all men apprehend. The misery of man appears like childish petulance, when we explore the steady and prodigal provision that has been made for his support and delight on this green ball which floats him through the heavens. What angels invented these splendid ornaments, these rich conveniences, this ocean of air above, this ocean of water beneath, this firmament of earth between? this zodiac of lights, this tent of dropping clouds, this striped coat of climates, this fourfold year? Beasts, fire, water, stones, and corn serve him. The field is at once his floor, his work-yard, his play-ground, his garden, and his bed.

Summary

In this quote, Ralph Waldo Emerson highlights the countless benefits that humanity derives from nature, which he refers to as the "Commodity." He acknowledges that although these advantages are temporary and secondary to the nourishment of the soul, they are the most universally recognized and appreciated. Emerson marvels at the extravagant provisions the world offers humanity. He questions the origins of the natural world's beauty, convenience, abundance, and diversity in the form of landscapes, climate variations, celestial phenomena, and various resources (animals, fire, water, stones, and crops). Emerson emphasizes how nature caters to humanity's needs by providing a multitude of purposes and settings: a place to live, work, play, and rest.