Chapter 1 Economy

Chapter 1 Economy

1. Lived at Concord, MA, lived in the woods for 2 years, 2 months isolated by Walden Pond

   • Some asked if he ever was lonely, how he ate, etc. Others were curious about what he gained, etc.

2. Talks about the people (men) in his town, how regretful some are to purchase land but deal with the negatives of owning it

   • Says that the labor man is not appreciated, or cared for, and that they can't grasp what they work for
   • Compares slavery to what people think about themselves; being trapped means less of a chance to think about their fate/future.
     • People choose the more common life style, thinking it's all they have left,
     • Age does not matter when giving/receiving advice.

3. Discusses the necessities of life such as food, shelter, fuel, and clothing and that one has to obtain it first by facing the problems of freedom. Also necessary to 'keep warm'

4. Most luxuries are not necessary and create difficulties for mankind

   • To be a good observer of human life, the best vantage point is "voluntary poverty"
     • Solve problems theoretically and practically,
       • Thoreau is speaking to those who are overworked or deal with hardships to improve themselves

5. Was a reporter, inspector of storms, looked after wild-stock, etc. minding his own business

   • Townspeople did not care for his work, but Thoreau doesn't hold a grudge
     • Goes to Walden Pond for business since society hasn't been accepting him.
       • Believes society corrupts individuals and how clothing affects who you are/how you act

6. People want something to do, not something to be.

7. Discusses the importance of a shelter/house. Describes difference between small and large family houses.

   • Savage states - modernized society, not more than half have shelter. Where society prevails, 1/4 have shelter. Savage man can own, civilized can't afford.
     • Discusses the class of farmers compared to savages and their riches. The poor have it worse.
       • Simplicity is better for the improvement of mankind

8. Deciding to build his own house expresses self-reliance. Cut timber/wood for days. Seemed more optimistic in this part of the novel about building his house.

   • Observes James Collins' shanty, and then continues with his house building, digging a cellar. With acquaintances, raised frame of house. Occupied house by July 4
     • Finds something good in building your own house, compares it to a bird building a nest. Sees beauty and core of truth. People sadly ignore architecture.

9. Lists the cost of building his house, almost 30 dollars, which is less than the rent others pay. Thinks students could make their own shelter with the money they use for rent at school.

   • Suggests students actually live and experience things in life rather than just study from afar. Self-education is better.
     • People attempt to get money only to to receive "unprofitable leisure , defrauding himself of the experience."
       • Things such as rail roads and tunnels are a waste of money to Thoreau, and the time it takes to get somewhere creates a loss of interest for traveling to that place.

10. Made his own bean-field and believes he had gained more and done better than other Concord farmers. Felt that he was more independent.

    • Believes architecture is pointless, and unnecessary. Does not see the use of it, and that abstract thought is more important.
    • Continues to list his expenses, and learns that it costs very little to obtain necessary food. He is satisfied.
      • Learns how to make bread with only necessary ingredients. Suggests others do the same.
      • Had little but basic and simple furniture that was good enough for him.
      • Only needed to work 6 weeks a year to meet expenses of living. Rest of the time to study. Values freedom, discusses his "mode" of living.

11. Some think Thoreau is selfish. Talks about philanthropy and how it relates to individuality.

    • Says that if he does anything good, it should be unintended. Selfishness has overrated philanthropy.
    • People should be generous to each other, is more healthy and beneficial to themselves and others.
    • Talks about religion somewhat and adds verses to end the chapter.