The Importance of “Heart Knowledge”

1063 Words5 Pages
Heart knowledge, also known as emotional intelligence, is the knowledge of knowing how to react when feeling strong emotions so that people can remain rational. In Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt, the author shows that people must always apply his or her “heart knowledge” to act rationally upon ones emotions. Throughout this essay it will explain how the emotions of sadness, anger, and joy can be acted rationally upon, when “heart knowledge” is applied. “Heart knowledge” will help a person be able to achieve a greater understanding of self awareness, of others, and of their surroundings. Applying “heart knowledge” when feeling the emotion of sadness is very important to keep people rational. In the beginning of the novel, the main character, Frank, experiences sadness about the death of his younger brother. He does not apply “heart knowledge” and acts irrationally by throwing rocks at a jackdaw in hope of harming it. The quote, “I threw a rock at a jackdaw that waddled over to Oliver’s grave. Dad said I shouldn’t…because I didn’t care,” (76) proves that the sadness of his brothers’ death caused him to not think before he acted. This shows that he didn’t think of the consequences, which proves he did not apply his “heart knowledge” when he felt the emotion of sadness. However, as the main character matures and becomes more aware of his “heart knowledge” he begins to act more rational when feeling the emotion of sadness. Towards the end of the novel, the main character is overwhelmed with sadness when his close friend dies. He applies his “heart knowledge” and acts rational by praying that she is alright in heaven and attending masses. The quote, “I can see the white purple-lined mourning card. I can see…I say the rosaries all day,” (325) proves that he thought about the situation and how he should go about with the emotions he
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