Henry David Thoreau's Practical Writers - Essay Example

Thoreau is believed to have been one of the most influential icons of his time. Leadership icons such as Martin Luther Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi were greatly inspired by Thoreau. Thoreau wrote many books in diverse fields. Particularly, he wrote on subjects that involved public oppression by oppressive leadership. Reforms and political courses were most of his favorite areas of writing. Thoreau was a diversified writer who wrote as a poet, author, critic, philosopher, naturalist, and realist.

It is believed that his literary works totaled over 20 volumes and mainly consisted of poems, journals, and essays. In his later years, Thoreau became so interested in natural history and wrote most of his late writings through expedition narratives. Although he inspired many, he also got inspiration from Darwin and Bartram. One of his most widely read essays is called "On the Duty of Civil Disobedience." Thoreau is a figure to be emulated. He believed in a better and just society. Although he is criticized for promoting civil disobedience, he advocated for the betterment of leadership rather than change (Thoreau 7-18)