"I have thought there was some advantage even in death, by which we mingle with the herd of common men"
- Henry David Thoreau
About this Quote
In this quote, Henry David Thoreau is exploring the concept that death can be unifying, in a manner. He suggests that in death, we become part of the "herd of common men," meaning that all of us ultimately experience this exact same fate. Thoreau might likewise be suggesting that death can be a humbling experience, bringing us down to the level of all other humans who have actually passed before us. Additionally, Thoreau may be questioning the idea of individualism and thinking about the worth of being a part of a bigger community, even in death. Overall, Thoreau seems to be pondering the universal nature of death and its potential for bringing people together.
"Life is life - whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage"
"Death is no more than passing from one room into another. But there's a difference for me, you know. Because in that other room I shall be able to see"
