"I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself, than be crowded on a velvet cushion"

This quote by Henry David Thoreau speaks with the idea of contentment and simplicity. He is recommending that it is much better to be alone and material with what one has, than to be surrounded by luxury and convenience. He is implying that it is better to be content with what one has, instead of to be surrounded by product possessions. He is also recommending that it is better to be alone and content, than to be surrounded by people and things that do not bring true happiness. This quote talks to the concept that true joy comes from within, which it is not based on material ownerships or the business of others. Thoreau is recommending that it is better to be content with what one has, than to be surrounded by product belongings and people that do not bring real happiness.