September 4, 2001
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Individualism
I have recently read a great novel by Henry James
Thoreau, Walden, where he records his often sensitive
and perceptive observations of nature. The possibility
of man living in nature intrigued him greatly and he
resolved to test the possibility of such a life.
He went to live in the woods. He did so in order to
discover the simple essentials of life and then clarify
its meaning for himself.
He actually wrote that book at a time when the United
States, after its independence, became an impending
growing nation. This brought some aspects to American
character:Individualism.
Ok, there is independence here. I have it. In all terms.
Such independence gives a great sense of value and
achievement. So that explains my wanting to go to the
woods?
I see. There are some woods around, but there is lack of
time to really reach. Then I decided to start watching
nature at home. It is a beginning. I have started
observing Alpha and Omega- my two fish. Got bored. Gave
up. almost slew on the sofa…
The thing is. Reading is good, observing nature is
really lifts someone´s soul, and breathing some fresh
air..hhmm (don´t remember what that is anyway!) But if
one does it just to search for answers that are inside
of oneself.. individually..then why look anywhere else?
as for me.. I have decided to to to the woods. And to
other places too. For knowledge and pleasure too. And
will share them with you all I think. At least Rio will
be a good start!
You all take care!
Ps. Saturde will sure tell me I was confusing (and confused)here (at
least I hope he reads it…Always think of him when I
write
) but he will understand it. I´m sure!
lets learn from nature..hahaha…
Tip:
I sinserely recommend some reading on these two writers from the Transcedentalism. I enjoy reading Thoreau, but I have to confess that Ralf Waldo Emerson is my favorite.. Anyway, have fun, you all!!!
http://eserver.org/thoreau/emerson1.html
http://www.eserver.org/thoreau/thoreau.html
Comments (4)
i guess you are right, that if i am looking for answers inside me, i needn’t look for inspiration frm the nature…but then it also helps to be in a calm place, than lets say my office if i need to be with myeself..hence the nature…..
ok now i sound confusing , right?
, good blog lotus….
you say rio..and i think of the fun parade they have there every year…
Nossa, você é a mais polivalente de todas as pessoas! Conselheira, ombro pra chorar, ouvido pra escutar, e também faz Body Pump! hehehe Mens sana in corpore sano. É isso aí. Obrigado pela força.
many many hugs
Hi Lotus/Shy/Jane,
I thought you were already in the woods,sorry.
Two eggs for the pizza(e-props).
I’ll pray for Brazil to win.Sure they’ll do.
Footbam without Brazil is nothing,like Pizza without tomatoes.
hey keeping mah fingers crossed for brazil…