Walden

Selections from Walden by Henry David Thoreau. Pgs 349-365.

One key point that Thoreau makes is that we need to simplify our lives. An example of this is how he says that everyone over complicates their lives and don't have full joy because of it. He then goes on to give up his old lifestyle and make a house by Walden Pond where he raises beans. Evidence from the text, "To be a philosopher is to live as it dictates, a life of simplicity." pg 354. Connection: This makes me think of Shakespeare in the Bush when the lady leaves civilization and simplifies her life by living with the islanders.

Another key point that Thoreau makes is that success is defined by you. An example of this is how he finds such great accomplishment in building his house at Walden Pond. He says that he feels like a god on Olympus for building his own house. Evidence: "I set up the frame of my house. No man was ever more honored in the character of his raisers than I." pg 356. Connection: Buddhists don't find success in the material things but rather in living a moral life and serving others.

Thoreau also believes in having as little debt as possible. An example of this is how he tried to incur as little debt as possible when building his house. He also made sure to pay everyone back even if they just helped him. Evidence: "For my sight has been whetted by experience; always on the limits trying to get into business and trying to get out of debt." pg 351. Connection: In The Kingdom of Heaven, Balien inherits his father's humble inheritance and works hard to improve it and builds a well to improve it and to help the town.