Origin of “To Be Great is to Be Misunderstood”
The powerful phrase “To be great is to be misunderstood” originates from Ralph Waldo Emerson’s 1841 essay, Self-Reliance. Within the essay, Emerson doesn’t simply state the phrase as a standalone idea; he builds to it, arguing that genuine originality will inevitably clash with conventional thinking. He illustrates this point with a compelling list of historical figures:
“Pythagoras was misunderstood, and Socrates, and Jesus, and Luther, and Copernicus, and Galileo, and Newton, and every pure and wise spirit that ever took flesh. To be great is to be misunderstood.”
Emerson wasn’t merely observing a coincidence; he was proposing a direct correlation. He suggests that the very qualities that elevate individuals to greatness – their independent thought, their unconventional approaches, their willingness to challenge the status quo – are precisely the qualities that invite misunderstanding from those comfortable with established norms. It’s a bold statement about the price of innovation and the nature of true genius.
Meaning of “To Be Great is to Be Misunderstood”
At its core, this phrase suggests that genuine greatness often requires a departure from the accepted norms of society. A truly original thinker, artist, or innovator will inevitably present ideas that are not immediately understood or accepted by the majority. This isn’t a flaw; it’s a consequence of venturing beyond the boundaries of conventional wisdom.
The phrase doesn’t imply that great individuals seek misunderstanding, but rather that it’s an unavoidable byproduct of their pursuit of truth or innovation. It’s a recognition that groundbreaking ideas often require time to be fully appreciated, and that those who champion them may face resistance, ridicule, or even persecution. Essentially, it validates those who feel different or ostracized for their beliefs or actions, reminding them that their perceived isolation might be a sign of their potential for greatness.
Literary Analysis of “To Be Great is to Be Misunderstood”
Emerson’s placement of this phrase within Self-Reliance is crucial. The entire essay champions individualism, nonconformity, and the importance of trusting one’s own intuition. “To be great is to be misunderstood” acts as a logical extension of these principles. If true self-reliance demands that individuals think for themselves and reject societal pressures, then misunderstanding becomes not a setback but a confirmation that they are staying true to their own vision.
The phrase is profoundly democratic. It implies that greatness isn’t defined by popular acclaim, but by the integrity of one’s own convictions. It liberates individuals from the need for external validation and encourages them to embrace their uniqueness, even in the face of opposition. Emerson wasn’t simply listing historical figures who were misunderstood; he was offering a framework for understanding the challenges faced by all those who dare to be different.
Consider, for instance, the early reception of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings. During his lifetime, his work was largely rejected by the art establishment and the public. He sold very few paintings and struggled with poverty and despair. After his death, his paintings became celebrated as masterpieces, and he is now considered one of the most influential artists in history. Van Gogh’s experience exemplifies Emerson’s point, and his greatness was not recognized during his lifetime precisely because his art was so radically different from the prevailing artistic norms.
Connecting to Literature and Beyond
This idea resonates throughout literature. Think of the protagonists in many classic novels who are ostracized or misunderstood by their communities because of their unconventional beliefs or behaviors. Captain Ahab in Herman Melville’s Moby Dick, for example, is driven by a relentless obsession that sets him apart from his crew and ultimately leads to his destruction. While his pursuit is ultimately tragic, it also reveals a profound and complex inner life. Similarly, Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is misunderstood and ultimately destroyed by the superficiality and hypocrisy of the society he attempts to infiltrate.
Beyond literature, the phrase applies to countless figures in history and contemporary society. Scientists who challenge established paradigms, artists who break new ground, activists who fight for social justice—all often face misunderstanding and resistance. Consider the struggles of Marie Curie, a pioneering scientist who faced sexism and skepticism in her pursuit of groundbreaking research on radioactivity. Her discoveries revolutionized the field of physics and chemistry, but she faced significant obstacles because of her gender and unconventional approach to science.
Literary and Rhetorical Devices
- Aphorism: “To be great is to be misunderstood” is a concise and memorable statement of a general truth, making it a classic example of an aphorism.
- Parallelism: Emerson’s list of historical figures – Pythagoras, Socrates, Jesus, Luther, etc. – creates a sense of rhythm and emphasis through the use of parallel structure.
- Metaphor: Misunderstanding can be seen as a metaphorical representation of the challenges and sacrifices that accompany greatness.
Beyond the Surface: Nuances and Considerations
While the phrase is often presented as a straightforward statement of truth, it’s important to consider its nuances. Not all misunderstanding is necessarily a sign of greatness. Sometimes, misunderstanding arises from genuine flaws in reasoning or communication. The key is to distinguish between misunderstanding that stems from challenging conventional wisdom and misunderstanding that stems from poor judgment or a lack of clarity.
Furthermore, the phrase doesn’t suggest that great individuals seek out misunderstanding. Rather, it acknowledges that misunderstanding is often an unavoidable consequence of pursuing innovative ideas or challenging established norms. It’s a reminder that true originality may require courage, resilience, and a willingness to stand alone.
The Enduring Power of the Phrase
“To be great is to be misunderstood” remains a powerful and relevant phrase because it speaks to a fundamental human desire for authenticity and self-expression. It offers validation for those who feel different or marginalized, and it encourages us to embrace our unique perspectives, even in the face of opposition. It reminds us that true greatness isn’t about seeking approval, but about staying true to our own vision, even when it’s not fully understood by others. The phrase’s lasting impact is a testament to its profound insight into the human condition and the challenges of pursuing a life of meaning and purpose.