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The Sphinx

A philosophical poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson

First published in 1841, "The Sphinx" is Ralph Waldo Emerson's most enigmatic philosophical poem, embodying Transcendentalist thought at its most condensed. The Sphinx poses the ancient question of humanity's meaning and place in nature, observing that all other beings move in harmony whilst man alone suffers discord and self-consciousness. A poet replies that humanity's restlessness—our dissatisfaction with any attained goal, our perpetual striving—is not a curse but the mark of our nature: we are defined by the question itself. The poem requires patient contemplation; its central paradox—that the questioner is the question—rewards re-reading and has provoked philosophical discussion for nearly two centuries. This text reflects its era.

Band

Silver · First-year university levelTypical starting range: adult

Length

long · about 1505 words in 4 sections · 1 picture

Source

Poems, Ralph Waldo Emerson

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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