Walking
Walking
Book Brief
Beta60
Book • Nonfiction
America • 1860s
2006
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
In "Walking," Henry David Thoreau explores the relationship between individuals and nature, emphasizing the importance of walking in fostering freedom and connecting with the natural world. Thoreau encourages people to embrace the wilderness over urban life, advocating for a spiritual journey and personal growth through immersion in nature's vastness.
Contemplative
Serene
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
12,376 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Henry David Thoreau's Walking is praised for its eloquent reflection on nature and advocacy for environmental consciousness, resonating with transcendental themes. Its poetic style captivates readers, though some find its lack of structure challenging. Critics appreciate its enduring relevance, but others deem it overly idealistic. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking piece on humanity's relationship with nature.
Who Should Read Walking?
A reader who loves nature, self-reflection, and transcendental philosophy would enjoy Thoreau's Walking. Similar to those captivated by Emerson's Nature or Muir's My First Summer in the Sierra, they seek a deep connection with the natural world and appreciate contemplative prose.
12,376 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Thoreau's essay Walking, originally published in the June 1862 issue of The Atlantic Monthly, was one of the final works published during his lifetime.
The essay emphasizes the philosophy of sauntering, which Thoreau describes as a kind of sacred journey, rather than just taking a casual stroll.
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Thoreau was a strong advocate for the concept of wilderness preservation, and Walking has been considered an influential text in the early environmental movement.
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60
Book • Nonfiction
America • 1860s
2006
Adult
14+ years
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