What Is Thoreau Calling for When He Writes Simplicity Simplicity Simplicity

In Walden, by “simplicity,” Thoreau means a focus on self reliance, a rejection of unneeded material goods or distracting external ideas, and the ability to enact one’s values through physical work.

What does Thoreau mean by this line simplicity simplicity?

In Walden, by “simplicity,” Thoreau means a focus on self reliance, a rejection of unneeded material goods or distracting external ideas, and the ability to enact one’s values through physical work.

Why is this quote important simplicity simplicity simplicity?

In this quote, Thoreau is alluding to material simplification but also is speaking more generally than just about “stuff.” He is referring to “affairs”: in addition to downscaling material life, Thoreau also advocates for simplifying one’s commitments to as few as possible.

Alexander Ross

Alexander Ross

Gaming, Esports & Interactive Media Writer

Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.

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