None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
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.
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
All quotes →Through want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
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An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
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Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
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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.
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That grand old poem called Winter
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