In Ralph Waldo Emerson’s poem “The Mountain and the Squirrel,” the squirrel’s response to the mountain is confident, assertive, and slightly playful. The squirrel addresses the mountain with a tone of self-assurance, making it clear that both the mountain and the squirrel have their own unique strengths and purposes.

The squirrel acknowledges that while the mountain is big and strong, it lacks the agility and versatility that the squirrel possesses. By saying, “If I cannot carry forests on my back, / Neither can you crack a nut,” the squirrel emphasizes that every creature has its own role and abilities, which should be respected. This response conveys a message of equality and mutual respect, underscoring the value of diversity in nature.