Meaning: Elizabeth Smart, a Canadian poet and novelist, in her quote "Vanity is a vital aid to nature: completely and absolutely necessary to life. It is one of nature's ways to bind you to the earth," provides a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of vanity and its significance in human life. This quote encapsulates the idea that vanity, often associated with excessive pride or self-admiration, serves a fundamental purpose in the human experience and is intricately connected to our existence on earth.

The concept of vanity, or excessive pride in one's appearance or achievements, has been traditionally viewed as a negative trait, often associated with shallowness and self-absorption. However, Smart's quote challenges this perception by suggesting that vanity is not merely a superficial characteristic but rather a vital component of nature that is indispensable for human life. By describing it as "completely and absolutely necessary to life," Smart emphasizes the essential role that vanity plays in the existence of individuals.

Moreover, Smart's assertion that vanity is "one of nature's ways to bind you to the earth" introduces a deeper layer of meaning to the concept. This implies that the preoccupation with one's appearance and self-image is not merely a human construct but is intricately intertwined with the natural world. It suggests that vanity serves as a means of connecting individuals to their physical existence and the earthly realm. In this sense, vanity is portrayed as a force that tethers individuals to their corporeal being and the tangible world around them.

Smart's quote prompts reflection on the multifaceted nature of vanity and its role in human life. It invites consideration of the ways in which our preoccupation with appearance and self-image is not merely a frivolous indulgence but a fundamental aspect of our existence. Furthermore, by aligning vanity with nature and the earth, Smart's quote encourages a reevaluation of the traditional understanding of this concept and challenges us to contemplate its deeper significance.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Smart's quote "Vanity is a vital aid to nature: completely and absolutely necessary to life. It is one of nature's ways to bind you to the earth" offers a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of vanity and its intrinsic connection to human existence. By presenting vanity as an essential component of life and emphasizing its link to the natural world, Smart challenges conventional perceptions of this concept and prompts a reexamination of its significance. This quote serves as a reminder that aspects of human nature often dismissed as superficial or frivolous may, in fact, hold deeper meaning and play a vital role in our experience on earth.