Page "religion" Paragraph 70

However, there is a crucial difference between the two histories.

Emerson evaded the problem by shoving it aside, or rather by leaving it behind him: he walked out of the Unitarian communion, so that it could lick the wound of his departure, preserve its self-respect and eventually accord him pious veneration.

Parker insisted upon not resigning, even when the majority wanted him to depart, upon daring the Fellowship to throw him out.

Hence he was in his lifetime, as is the memory of him afterwards, a canker within the liberal sensitivity.

He still points an accusing finger at all of us, telling us we have neither the courage to support him nor the energy to cut his throat.