Sunday, August 5, 2012

What does Thoreau talk about in the conclusion to Walden?

Thoreau brings
up all circumstances of men. He encourages his readers to not necessarily compare their own life
conditions to other men, but to value the circumstances they have themselves for the features of
what can be learned from them.

He says:


However mean your life is, meet it and live it; do not shun it and call it hard
names.

I feel at times as if he is simply referring to a
similar adage that our society sometimes notes today: "Don't worry, be
happy."

He encourages man to consider what one's current situation has
to offer and think to make the most of it. He encourages the common man to think, who knows what
lies ahead?

Thoreau's Conclusion tois specifically optimistic after having
his period of reflection. This period leaves room for him to consider that others might benefit
from such experiences.

I would encourage you to read the last paragraph
again. Often an author saves a nugget of strong truth for that last paragraph.


 

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