Analysis Of Henry David Thoreau And Herman Hesse's Siddhartha

Although we might think we’d have it all, if and when we have it all, Henry David Thoreau and Herman Hesse’s readings show how we don’t have anything until we have next to nothing. A test of perceived happiness versus real happiness was done to the main characters in both readings. The naturally complacent way through life for these two was obviously one that was chosen for them but rich (either by society or by parents). Instead of taking the wealthier and “more fulfilling” ways of life plus short term benefits, they chose to question what they were given and yet somehow stay appreciative. Through doing so, they benefited with skills from endeavors that you, or me the “civilized” could have never accomplished – even with modern technology.

However, he did not need to do as he was in theory, set for life with his dad’s status and guidance. The short term benefits he could’ve received from staying with his parents would have been great, but the long-term consequences he would’ve had is a life full of regret and wonder. Regret from not choosing his own path as well as resentment for this father for not allowing him to do so. And wonder for a raging curiosity he would develop over the years thinking of what his life could have had. “When someone seeks," said Siddhartha, "then it easily happens that his eyes see only the thing that he seeks, and he is able to find nothing, to take in nothing because he always thinks only about the thing he is seeking, because he has one goal, because he is obsessed with his goal. Seeking means: having a goal. But finding means: being free, being open, having no goal.” Siddhartha could have not gone on his mission and not succeeded in finding enlightenment which would have also resulted in Govinda not achieving enlightenment. Instead, Siddhartha wisely chooses to leave a life full of short-term benefits and lust and instead live a life full of experience and most importantly, happiness. It’s this journey that also introduced him to Kamala, a huge piece in this adventure. She teaches him that he doesn’t need all the wealth in the world to achieve happiness or furthermore, win her love. In essence, happiness is something that you acquire on your journey, something that you would not be able to experience if short-term goals are more