Transcendentalism In Walden Pond, By Henry David Thoreau

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Walden Pond is a novel written by Henry David Thoreau that chronicles his two years and two months living on the shore of Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts. Henry David Thoreau, through his writings, emphasizes the need for simple living and personal independence in one’s life. Published in 1854, this book sheds a light on the unique experience of Thoreau’s quest in nature, as well as his contributions to the transcendentalist movement. Henry David Thoreau uses this writing to explore the themes of a simplistic living style and the value of self-reliance. Overall Thoreau was successful in delivering his message, but his overly descriptive nature may be off-putting to some readers. The first and longest chapter in Walden is Economy. Economy …show more content…

Thoreau brings up the idea of loneliness in a very interesting way. He refers to loneliness more as a state of mind than a physical phenomenon, stating that one can be surrounded by people and still feel very lonely inside or be by yourself and not feel lonely at all. This is something I feel that a lot of people are able to relate to. He also talks about how he prefers solitude saying, “I never found the companion that was so companionable as solitude” and discusses how people spend so much time in the company of others that they are not experiencing life between conversations. Thoreau used his time alone for introspection and to become more acquainted with nature. Although he was not that far from society, I would imagine that spending most of your time alone in nature would feel truly isolating so, I admire the way that Thoreau turns solitude into something useful and …show more content…

He justifies his refusal with saying, “I did not pay a tax to, or recognize the authority of, the State which buys and sells men, women, and children, like cattle, at the door of its senate-house.” He spent only a night in prison before being released and continuing with his daily errands. A few chapters past The Village is one title Baker Farms. This chapter recounts Thoreau’s run-in with a poor Irish immigrant named John Fields. He tells Fields and his family of his experience and the benefits of living a simpler life unburdened by the responsibilities and costs of owning a farm. Although Fields does not heed his advice, this chapter shows just how much Thoreau believes his lifestyle will benefit the average

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