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But do thou leave as unlawful these winnings, and deal with Cause and Effect, the chancellors of God. In the Will work and acquire, and thou hast chained the wheel of Chance, and shalt sit hereafter out of fear from her rotations.
I take this simply as chance is temporary, or a "teach a man to fish" type of literary element. Winning the lottery is not as valuable as earning the title of a profession you have a passion for, possibly? I chose to believe it as this.
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There is no more deviation in the moral standard than in the standard of height or bulk. No greater men are now than ever were
I see this as more of a "in the present over all else", rather than simply saying one generation or time of men is greater than another. The time to make one's impact is, in fact, the greatest time there is.
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The populace think that your rejection of popular standards is a rejection of all standard, and mere antinomianism; and the bold sensualist will use the name of philosophy to gild his crimes. But the law of consciousness abides.
Emerson criticizes those who misuse philosophy to justify immoral behavior (the bold sensualist), emphasizing that true guidance comes from the "law of consciousness," or one's inner moral compass, which remains constant and true regardless of external pressures or justifications.
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I hope in these days we have heard the last of conformity and consistency. Let the words be gazetted and ridiculous henceforward. Instead of the gong for dinner, let us hear a whistle from the Spartan fife. Let us never bow and apologize more. A great man is coming to eat at my house. I do not wish to please him; I wish that he should wish to please me.
In this metaphorical scenario, the great man represents societal expectations, influential figures, or those deemed important by society. Emerson rejects the idea of altering oneself to please others, no matter how powerful or influential they may be. Instead, he suggests that true greatness lies in being so self-assured and authentic that others feel compelled to conform to your way of being, or rid of the conformist concept altogether.
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Whoso would be a man must be a nonconformist. He who would gather immortal palms must not be hindered by the name of goodness, but must explore if it be goodness.
Emerson asserts this central tenet of "Self-Reliance", that which underscores the conflict between individual authenticity and societal pressures. Emerson argues that true greatness arises from independence of thought and action, rather than blind adherence to norms.
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