"Generally speaking, a howling wilderness does not howl: it is the imagination of the traveler that does the howling"

This quote by Henry David Thoreau is a reminder that our perception of the world is often shaped by our own creativity. The wilderness itself does not howl, however rather it is the traveler's imagination that develops the howling noise. Thoreau is suggesting that our experience of the world is frequently infiltrated our own ideas and sensations. We can select to see the world as a hostile and harmful place, or as a peaceful and inviting one. Our creativity can be a powerful tool in forming our experience of the world, and it is necessary to be mindful of how we utilize it. Thoreau's quote motivates us to be knowledgeable about our own thoughts and feelings, and to use our creativity to create a positive experience of the world.