Final answer:
The theme of a poem is its central idea; for works concerned with individualism, such as those of the Romantic period and American Transcendentalism, the theme often rejects conformity in favor of personal truth and self-reliance. The theme that fits this concept is 'Being different can be isolating, but it leads to true independence and happiness.'
Step-by-step explanation:
The theme of a poem refers to the central idea or message that the poet intends to convey through their work. In examining various texts, particularly poetry, the theme can often be identified as a profound commentary on human experiences, emotions, or societal norms. For example, look at Gwendolyn Brooks's poem "We Real Cool," where the theme revolves around the concept of identity and conformity, especially in the lives of adolescents.
In the context of the provided references, the theme that emerges is a critique of conformity and a celebration of individualism. Many literary works of the Romantic period, as well as later writers like Emerson and Thoreau, underscore the same ideal: the merit of living according to one's own principles and the pitfalls of succumbing to societal pressures. These ideas were particularly pronounced during the American Transcendentalism movement which emphasized self-reliance and the importance of the individual over the collective.
Therefore, based on the referenced literary nonfiction and the Romantic period's values, the most appropriate theme identified from the given options would likely be: Being different can be isolating, but it leads to true independence and happiness. This aligns with the ethos of individualism and self-sufficiency highlighted by the authors and their texts.