As we approach the bicentennial of Emerson's birth, God in Concord returns us to the power and purity of Emerson's vision. Geldard shows in the private journals the path Emerson took to his revolutionary position as America's seer. He gives us an Emerson who hears the moaning of the human heart and responds, taking us beyond romantic notions or sentimental attachments.
This book is worth the mental gymnastics! I am pouring over it slowly and am really enjoying it. For the first time I am able to understand what Emerson is saying thanks to the commentary by the author. Although I instinctively understand Emerson's meaning I do have a hard time reading his words. This book really caused me to think and wrestle with what was being said (plus I found myself needing dictionary.com with me at all times to look up words - great way to build vocabulary). I just recently visited Emerson's house in Concord and thought of this book as I could feel the vibe in the house. There was a tremendous sense of tranquility and beauty there; having a better understanding of how Emerson thought made that visit so much more meaningful. I highly recommend this book if you want a better understanding of what shaped Emerson's spirituality which is the essence of the man himself.