This week's post differs somewhat from previous ones. It should help you not only reflect on the Emerson (and soon, Thoreau) texts we've read in class, but also to generate ideas for an upcoming project. I will provide you with an assignment sheet soon, but note that for this project, you will be asked to identify and describe at least two contemporary works of literature, film, music, or visual art in which you perceive the influence of Transcendentalism. You will have to analyze how these works of art explore the same themes and/or make similar arguments to those in texts by Emerson and Thoreau.

So, as a warm-up, for this week's post, please describe in one-two paragraphs one work of contemporary American literature, film, music, or visual art that reflects views similar to Emerson's or Thoreau's on at least one of the following themes:

*the importance of non-conformity
*the importance of self-reliance
*the importance of solitude
*nature as locus for self-actualization and/or connection to a divine force
*the existence of a single uniting spiritual force vs. the importance of individuality
*living simply as a path to achieving self-knowledge and/or a better understanding of the world as a whole

To score in the 8-10 range on this post, you must describe specific details from your chosen work of contemporary art that illustrate the theme(s) above *and* include direct quotes or detailed paraphrases (properly cited in MLA style) from the Emerson and/or Thoreau texts we've read for class. In addition, you must explain how these details show the similarities (and any differences)between the Transcendentalist texts and your chosen work of art.

Do your best work on this post; the time and effort will pay off when you use it as the basis for your upcoming project.

POST DUE: Monday, October 2