"Your goodness must have some edge to it."      -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Here in one easily accessible volume is the edge of Emerson—all the essential writings of this notable philosopher of the American spirit. Included are Emerson's complete essays and representative selections from the poems, addresses, sermons, biographical sketches, and miscellaneous works that make him an outstanding interpretive critic and contributor to America's spiritual and cultural heritage. This collection provides both the scholar and the general reader with a comprehensive view of Emerson's evocative and timely thought.