None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Instead of water we got here a draught of beer, a lumberer's drink, which would acclimate and naturalize a man at once,-which would make him see green, and, if he slept, dream that he heard the wind sough among the pines.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the deep connection between nature and human experience, suggesting that natural elements can profoundly influence our perception and dreams.
Thoreau's quote encapsulates the essence of nature's ability to transform our understanding and experiences. By comparing water with beer, he implies that nature offers a more profound nourishment for our souls, one that aligns us with our surroundings. The imagery of green landscapes and the sound of wind through the trees evokes a sense of serenity and connection to the earth, highlighting how the natural world can enrich our lives and alter our subconscious thoughts.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared at a nature retreat to emphasize the importance of connection with the environment.
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.
An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
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.
That grand old poem called Winter
Similar quotes
Vitality and beauty are gifts of Nature for those who live according to its laws.
When I was two, a dragonfly flew near me. A man knocked it to the ground and trod on it. I remember crying because I'd caused the dragonfly to be killed.
Should you shield the canyons from the windstorms you would never see the true beauty of their carvings.
The earth will not continue to offer its harvest, except with faithful stewardship. We cannot say we love the land and then take steps to destroy it for use by future generations.
To me, nature is sacred. Trees are my temples and forests are my cathedrals.
Once you learn to read the land, I have no fear of what you will do to it, or with it. And I know many pleasant things it will do to you.