Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, The Complet

Thus we feed on genius, and refresh ourselves from too much conversation with our mates, and exult in the depth of nature in that direction in which he leads us. What indemnification is one great man for populations of pigmies! Every mother wishes one son a genius, though all the rest should be mediocre. But a new danger appears in the excess of influence of the great man. His attractions warp us from our place. We have become underlings and intellectual suicides. Ah! yonder in the horizon is our help;- other great men, new qualities, counterweights and checks on each other. We cloy of the honey of each peculiar greatness. Every hero becomes a bore at last. Perhaps Voltaire was not bad-hearted, yet he said of the good Jesus, even, I pray you, let me never hear that man's name again. They cry up the virtues of George Washington,- Damn George Washington! is the poor Jacobin's whole speech and confutation. But it is human nature's indispensable defense. The centripetence augments the centrifugence. We balance one man with his opposite, and the health of the state depends on the see-saw.

Summary

This quote reflects on the idea of the impact of genius and great individuals on society. It suggests that while we are inspired and rejuvenated by the brilliance and depth of these extraordinary individuals, they can also disrupt our own sense of place and identity. The excessive influence of a great man can overshadow others and make us feel inferior. However, the quote emphasizes the importance of counterbalancing such influences through the presence of other great individuals with different qualities. These counterweights prevent us from becoming complacent and ensure the overall equilibrium and health of society.