Henry David Thoreau

Our houses are such unwieldy property that we are often imprisoned rather than housed in them.

Henry David Thoreau

Our moments of inspiration are not lost though we have no particular poem to show for them; for those experiences have left an indelible impression, and we are ever and anon reminded of them.

Henry David Thoreau

Our whole life is startlingly moral. There is never an instant’s truce between virtue and vice. Goodness is the only investment that never fails.

Henry David Thoreau

Perfect sincerity and transparency make a great part of beauty, as in dewdrops, lakes, and diamonds.

Henry David Thoreau

Philanthropy is almost the only virtue which is sufficiently appreciated by mankind.

Henry David Thoreau

Pursue some path, however narrow and crooked, in which you can walk with love and reverence.

Henry David Thoreau

Read the best books first, or you may not have a chance to read them at all.

Henry David Thoreau

Reform keeps many scores of newspapers in its service, but not one man.

Henry David Thoreau

Silence is the universal refuge, the sequel to all dull discourses and all foolish acts, a balm to our every chagrin, as welcome after satiety as after disappointment.

Henry David Thoreau

So we defend ourselves and our henroosts, and maintain slavery.

Henry David Thoreau