Poem Lines

The mountain and the squirrel
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
“Little prig.”
Bun replied,
“You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I’m not so large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry:
I’ll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track.
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put;
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut.

Summary

“The Mountain and the Squirrel” by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a poetic dialogue between two unlikely characters—a mountain and a squirrel—each representing different aspects of nature and life. The poem begins with the revelation that the mountain and the squirrel have had a quarrel, initiated by the mountain calling the squirrel a “little prig,” a somewhat condescending term.

Despite this insult, the squirrel responds calmly and logically. It acknowledges the mountain’s size and grandeur but points out that all things, including different types of weather and experiences, are necessary to make up the entirety of life’s cycle and the world itself. The squirrel argues that it is not ashamed of its smaller size and less imposing presence, asserting that it occupies its rightful place just as the mountain does.

The poem emphasizes the idea that everyone has their own role and importance in the grand scheme of things. The squirrel highlights its own agility and ability to crack nuts, contrasting with the mountain’s inability to perform such tasks. This comparison serves to illustrate that while the mountain may have monumental size and strength, the squirrel possesses its own unique talents and contributions.

Emerson uses this simple yet profound conversation between the mountain and the squirrel to convey a deeper message about acceptance, self-worth, and the interconnectedness of all beings in nature. He suggests that diversity and differences among individuals are not only natural but essential for the harmony and completeness of the world.

In conclusion, “The Mountain and the Squirrel” encourages readers to appreciate their own strengths and talents, regardless of how they compare to others’. It teaches us to embrace diversity and recognize the value in every individual’s unique contributions to the larger whole, echoing Emerson’s transcendentalist beliefs in the inherent goodness and interconnectedness of all life.

Analysis

“The Mountain and the Squirrel” by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a charming exploration of the value of individuality and acceptance. Through a conversation between a mountain and a squirrel, Emerson illustrates profound philosophical ideas in a simple and accessible manner.

The poem begins with the mountain belittling the squirrel by calling it a “little prig,” implying arrogance or self-importance due to its small size. This sets the stage for a dialogue where the squirrel responds calmly, acknowledging the mountain’s size but asserting its own worth. The squirrel argues that despite not being as large or imposing as the mountain, it plays a vital role in the ecosystem. It eloquently states that all aspects of nature, including different weathers and experiences, contribute to the completeness of life’s cycle and the world itself.

Emerson uses this dialogue to convey the idea that each individual, regardless of their size or stature, has unique strengths and contributions to offer. The squirrel’s ability to crack nuts symbolizes its practical skills and agility, contrasting with the mountain’s symbolic strength and stability. This comparison suggests that while the mountain may have physical grandeur, the squirrel’s nimbleness and practical abilities are equally valuable.

The poem’s message is clear: diversity and individual differences are not only natural but essential. Emerson emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating one’s own abilities and role in the world, rather than comparing oneself to others. This aligns with Emerson’s transcendentalist philosophy, which promotes self-reliance, individuality, and a deep respect for nature.

In conclusion, “The Mountain and the Squirrel” is a simple yet profound poem that encourages readers to embrace diversity, acknowledge their own worth, and respect the unique contributions of others. It serves as a reminder that every individual, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, plays a vital part in the interconnected web of life. Emerson’s poetic dialogue beautifully captures these timeless truths, making it a cherished piece in American literature that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.