Nature (version 2)


Read by Jesse Zuba

(4.7 stars; 42 reviews)

First published anonymously in 1836, Nature marks the beginning both of Emerson’s literary career and the Transcendentalist movement. Asking why his generation “should not also enjoy an original relation to the universe,” Emerson argues that “Man is a god in ruins” who might yet be redeemed by the renewal of harmony with nature. Encompassing themes that would preoccupy him for years to come, including the repressive force of social routine, the divinity of nature, and the creative potential of the individual, Nature reflected recent developments in European philosophy and literature even as it pushed American artists to break new ground. The book’s initial reception was mixed, but it influenced members of Emerson’s circle, including such luminaries as Henry David Thoreau and Margaret Fuller, and it would go on to inspire the work of writers ranging from Walt Whitman and Friedrich Nietzsche to Robert Frost and Ralph Ellison. - Summary by Jesse Zuba (1 hr 47 min)

Chapters

Introduction 4:31 Read by Jesse Zuba
Chapter I - Nature 6:46 Read by Jesse Zuba
Chapter II - Commodity 3:51 Read by Jesse Zuba
Chapter III - Beauty 14:25 Read by Jesse Zuba
Chapter IV - Language 16:24 Read by Jesse Zuba
Chapter V - Discipline 17:02 Read by Jesse Zuba
Chapter VI - Idealism 20:24 Read by Jesse Zuba
Chapter VII - Spirit 7:22 Read by Jesse Zuba
Chapter VIII - Prospects 17:14 Read by Jesse Zuba

Reviews

Jesse Zuba is a stunning narrator


(5 stars)

What a gift Mr. Zuba has bestowed upon us with his reading. His calm baritone and transparent dictation are a pleasure to listen to. He does great justice to Emerson's masterful essay.

Wonder-filled


(5 stars)

A marvelous text given a splendid reading. I received what I was not expecting. Thank you for this.


(5 stars)

Good reading. Emerson is a hard read for me, but can be thought-provoking all the same.

great reader


(4.5 stars)

wonderful read through a classic collection of seminal essays for american transcendentalism