Chapter 5 Walden Notes

Chapter 5 Walden Notes

1. "There can be no very black melancholy to him who lives in the midst of Nature"(Thoreau 145).

   • Through this quote, Thoreau wants to convince the readers that nature will give you happiness that lasts forever. He also claims that no negativity can go near you if you are united with nature.

2. Thoreau believes that being alone can lead to the perfect mindset. Being alone means not having other opinions available to influence your decision, thus showing one's true thoughts expressed.

   • Thoreau believes that what some people consider "negative", such as loneliness is actually positive in its own way. Thoreau says that culture forbids solitude. Walden thinks that loneliness brings people together to achieve harmony in nature.

3. Thoreau is never isolated, though nature maintains him in the company. Walden also believes that he is connected and not far from all things. He admits he's not technically far away from everyone, since the Earth is just a small particle in the cosmos.

4. The isolation of Thoreau claims that it doesn't make him feel alone or angry. He likes and enjoys the world instead. He believes that he is spiritually connected with nature alone.

5. Chapter 6 Walden notes

   • This chapter allows the readers tolearn more about Thoreau's interaction with other people. The way he communicates with others may seem weird because of his interesting mindset. Thoreau is example of a transcendentalism.
   • “I THINK that I love society as much as most, and am ready enough to fasten myself like a bloodsucker for the time to any full-blooded man that comes in my way”(Thoreau 155).
     • The quote is Thoreau expressing his love for wishing to spread the blessing of nature. Thoreau sees nature as a gift that many don't think is good until they experience it. This quote also shows Thoreau's level of eagerness as high to spread the word.
   • Thoreau not only loved nature, he loved trying bring people to discover nature with him. Thoreau's love of loneliness doesn't prevent him from others. He enjoys the visits of others because he sees its a chance of unlocking one's true happiness.
     • Thoreau talks of a period he spent with a woodcutter. He defines him as a person full of inherent modesty and contentment. Thoreau asks him metaphysical questions, showing that he loves to discover things about others.