Self-reliance and Simplicity in Walden - Essay Example

English Theme of Self Reliance in Walden Walden emphasized on the significance of self-reliance in transcending the desperate existence. Self-reliance is used in the book as a form of social critique of the contemporary western cultures of materialism and consumerist attitudes, in addition to the obliteration of nature. The author used self- reliance to engage with readers in a creative manner. Self reliance was also used with an aim of improving the contemporary culture. Self-reliance is seen in instances where Thoreau refuses to be in companionship with others (Thoreau 39).

Although, he recognizes the significance of companionship, though he does not seem to be in need of others. According to Thoreau, self reliance is a social and economic principle that is highly valued. Thoreau also considers self-reliance as economic and spiritual. The theme of self-reliance is explicit in Thoreau’s thesis. The book highlighted a personal journey and declaration of independence, voyage of spiritual discovery, social experiment, and self-reliance. Before he moved to a cabin built in Walden Pond, Thoreau dreamed of immersing himself in nature.

He hoped to gain an objective understanding of the society through personal introspection by delving into nature (Thoreau 44). Thoreau was inspired by a transcendentalist philosophy, which was a major philosophy during the Romantic Period. In the second chapter of the book, Thoreau recollects thoughts of his previous dwelling before he moved to Walden Pond. He had notions that he was moving to an area that was full of leisure and free of obligations. Thoreau moved to Walden Pond with a feeling of great accomplishments of self reliance.

He was proud that he is a homeowner, and is self-reliant. He has a grand philosophic achievement and a symbol of conquest. A profound part of his life was his stay at the cabin in Walden Pond. He went to Walden Pond to live a deep life, and experience life. While at Walden Pond, Thoreau was self reliant because he was free of materialistic pursuits. He supported himself by growing vegetables and doing errands at nearby villages. Additionally, he spent a significant amount of his time reading, observing nature, and writing.

Thoreau was inspired by the ideals of transcendentalism and Emerson. He emphasized on solitude and independence. Thoreau encourages his readers to enjoy nature and their inner selves. He also acknowledges the right to be different (Thoreau 131). Most importantly, he engages in free actions and thoughts instead of social conformity, which are characteristics of self reliant people. Thoreau recommends people to avoid relying on others or being concerned with social formalities. In the last chapter, Thoreau is urgent and passionate about his ideas and need for independence.

In this chapter, he criticizes conformity. By being self-reliant, Thoreau says that people will find self fulfillment and happiness. In this case, self reliance does not necessarily mean catering for financial needs. It refers to the philosophical ways of understanding humankind and the natural world, and their reliance on each other in order to survive. This duality accounts for the connections between Thoreau the poet and account. They are products of self reliance because the commercialization that allowed Thoreau to live at Walden Pond also allowed him to connect with nature (Thoreau 149).

It is vital to note that Thoreau did not intend for his readers to follow in his path. Thoreau wanted his readers to follow in their own original and unique paths. Work Cited Thoreau, Henry. Walden-Life in the Woods-The Transcendentalist Masterpiece. Washington. Megalodon Entertainment LLC. 2012.