The concept that “The Art” of Ralph Waldo Emerson deals with is the recognition of beauty through art. Art is seen throughout the composition as both an expression of the human soul and as a language that speaks to all individuals, not just the rich or privileged. For the individual, art is a means by which they can inspire themselves to create and, in turn, inspire others. What Emerson is trying to pontificate is the overarching idea that art conveys different meanings to different individuals and serves as a tool of inspiration for the mind. In delivering his views on the subject of art, Emerson remains consistent and fluent as he not only informs the reader about the intricacies of art, but he also raises valid ideas about its perception and challenges the reader to question one's own perception and the value of the subject. The definition of art varies from person to person, and there is no right or wrong answer when asking what constitutes art. Emerson believes that “the individual in whom simple tastes and sensitivity to all the great human influences prevail over the accidents of a local and particular culture is the best art critic” (5). The individual cannot rely on word of mouth to form a clear picture of a painting, because the message conveyed to the masses is not necessarily the same message conveyed to the individual. In order to receive a clear analysis, the individual must personally experience the painting and form their own opinion. According to this logic, the critic's point of view makes no sense because he cannot accurately describe to the listener the message of the painting, because he has based his deduction on the personal emotions and thoughts provoked by the work of 'art. Through such ...... middle of paper ...... art seen. The individual is removed from the comfort zone of word of mouth and is challenged to think for themselves what is truly worthy of praise. By examining how they have viewed art in the past and applying the knowledge gleaned from the article to a reevaluation of art, the person can benefit from that experience. By choosing to listen to their mind and no one else, they experience true inspiration from a work of art, not counterfeit inspiration from word of mouth. By examining the simplest forms of art, this individual discovers beauty in areas once thought devoid of beauty and discovers that nature is full of radiant beauty. Just as a fable can deliver a message as powerful as an epic, a humble image residing in an unassuming abode can inspire the viewer as immensely as the lauded masterpiece nestled in a mansion..