Summary of the poem ‘The Apology’:

“The Apology” by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a poem in which the speaker expresses regret for the mistakes and shortcomings of his past. He acknowledges that he has not always lived up to his own ideals, and that he has sometimes acted out of fear or weakness rather than courage and conviction. However, he also expresses a sense of hope and renewal, recognizing that each new day presents an opportunity for growth and change. Throughout the poem, the speaker emphasizes the importance of honesty and self-awareness, and encourages readers to embrace their own imperfections and strive towards a more authentic and meaningful existence.

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Psychology Spot

“One who breaks an unjust law must do it openly, lovingly… and with a willingness to accept the penalty. I submit that an individual who breaks a law that conscience tells him is unjust, and willingly accepts the penalty by staying in jail to arouse the conscience of the community over its injustice, is in reality expressing the very highest respect for law.” — April 12, 1963