M. Michel de Montaigne, b. 1533, is known for having “invented” the Essay, around 1571. Essays were his attempts to combine his own observations and philosophy, offering his readers an opportunity to mull over issues that interested him.

He lived in France, and spent the second half of his life in seclusion, writing and writing. Rhinos are sympathetic, though living in the Wild precludes absolute solo efforts. Still, the state of mind is familiar to Us.

Said M. de Montaigne: “We can be knowledgeable with other men’s  knowledge but we cannot be wise with other men’s wisdom.”