"I think that there is nothing, not even crime, more opposed to poetry, to philosophy, ay, to life itself than this incessant business"
- Henry David Thoreau
About this Quote
Henry David Thoreau is expressing his ridicule for the concept of "incessant organization," which he believes is antithetical to poetry, viewpoint, and life itself. He is recommending that the consistent pursuit of cash and product ownerships is a diversion from the more significant elements of life. He believes that this focus on service and materialism is a form of criminal activity, as it removes from the appeal of life and the pursuit of knowledge. He is promoting for a life of simplicity and consideration, instead of among consistent striving and build-up. He believes that this kind of life is more conducive to imagination, understanding, and pleasure. Thoreau's words are a reminder to take an action back and appreciate the beauty of life, instead of getting caught up in the pursuit of cash and material belongings.
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