QuoteProject
Every child begins the world again, to some extent, and loves to stay outdoors, even in wet and cold. It plays house, as well as horse, having an instinct for it...At last we know not what it is to live in the open air, and our lives are domestic in more senses than we think.
Henry David Thoreau
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Children embrace nature and play freely, reminding us of the joy found in the outdoors and simplicity.

This quote by Henry David Thoreau highlights the inherent spirit of children who experience the world with wonder and enthusiasm, often preferring the outdoors regardless of weather conditions. Thoreau contrasts this joyful connection to nature with the more domesticated, often sheltered lives of adults, suggesting that as we grow, we may lose some of our natural instincts and appreciation for the simplicity of outdoor life.

Themes

ChildrenNatureOutdoorsPlayLifeSimplicity

In practice

Example use cases

A motivational speech to inspire a community to encourage outdoor activities for children.

More from Henry David Thoreau

None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Through want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
Henry David ThoreauRead
An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
Henry David ThoreauRead
As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
Henry David ThoreauRead
That grand old poem called Winter
Henry David ThoreauRead

Similar quotes

The course of my long life hath reached at last in fragile bark over a tempestuous sea the common harbor, where must rendered be account for all the actions of the past.
Henry Wadsworth LongfellowRead
I get it now; I didn't get it then. That life is about losing and about doing it as gracefully as possible... and enjoying everything in between.
Mia FarrowRead
I just have a great life. I know great people. I've had great relationships - all different kinds of relationships. I am so lucky to be on the little golden path that led me to all this.
Julia RobertsRead
My poor life This shawl Frayed on strongboxes full of gold I roll along with Dream And smoke And the only flame in the universe
Blaise CendrarsRead
How shall I sum up my life?_x000D_ I think I’ve been particularly lucky.
Audrey HepburnRead
I join the March for Life in Washington with my prayers. May God help us respect all life, especially the most vulnerable.
Pope FrancisRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.

Quote by Henry David Thoreau | QuoteProject