Solitude is impracticable, and society fatal. We must keep our head in the one and our hands in the other. The conditions are me
t, if we keep our independence, yet do not lose our sympathy. Which best describes Emerson's argument in this excerpt? It is impossible to practice solitude and be a part of society, and a person must choose one. In order to balance society and solitude, one must maintain both independence and sympathy for others. Being a part of society is preferable to being in solitude, as long as one has sympathy for others. Practicing solitude is preferable to being part of society, because it allows a person to maintain independence.
