Diction And Symbolism In Henry David Thoreau's 'Reading'

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READING Pages 94-104 Key Points: · Walden believes that modern society has placed too much value on materialistic things; as a whole has spent money on everything EXCEPT curing the mind. · The great Classics are the worlds most valuable resource; they are timeless and can speak to the soul of every man. · There is no difference between a man who cannot read and a man that can read but chooses to never read great works. "These same questions that disturb and puzzle and confound us have in their turn occurred to all the wise men; not one has been omitted; and each has answered them, according to his ability, by his words and his life." (page 102, Chapter "Reading") Walden theorizes that any and all questions had by modern man have…show more content…
Waldens abstract diction "..higher pastures than his thoughts?" in context does not resemble the literal imagery presented, but rather a more meaningful, in depth message of elevating one's mind. Walden often uses rhetorical questions, such the one in this passage, to engage the reader to think beyond the words. His rhetorical question "What should we think of a shepard's life if his flocks always wondered to higher pastures than his thoughts?" is provoking the reader to contemplate the value of his life if he never mentally transcends his surroundings. With such strategies applied throughout his work, Walden allows his readers to understand his meaning while encouraging them to formulate their own thoughts and apply it to their own

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