Walden and Other Writings

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Summary: Do not lisenten to this anarchist
Review: Throughout his life, Thoreau had been an advocate for resistance to government, as well as any other forms of authority. Can anyone in his/her right mind even think of reading hisseditious writings? What would our society be like, if no government were to exist? If no restrictions were placed on the people, then wanton destruction would have destroyed civilization as we know it. What did Thoreau know about government? If he was truly a classist, why is it that his ways of lifehas not been followed by many people? If a reader cared to carefully read, for example, each "chapters" of Walden, he/she would see that Thoreau was merely a hypocrite. He contradicted himself throughout the book, and at times, he would say the exact opposite of what he had already said just a few pages before. What purpose would this serve, if none other than to confuse his readers more than they want to be? If given a choice, I would choose any book other than Walden, or any other works by Thoreau.

Rating:
Summary: For every thinking American
Review: Walden and Moby-Dick are the two inexhaustible classics of the American Renaissance. You cannot call yourself an educated, reflective, responsible citizen if you haven't at least tried to absorb the messages in each: live lightly, think deeply, resist commercialism and the pressures of the crowd. Not easy, in an increasingly commercial, crowded, wasteful world, but your grandchildren will thank you for trying. For extra inspiration, check out Thoreau's wonderful essay "Walking" in this edition, and don't skip Prof. Howarth's introduction to Thoreau's life, work and character: it's lucid, informative and moving.

Rating:
Summary: One of the Greatest Books Ever Written
Review: Walden is a masterpiece of aberrance and non-conformity. It did a good deal to debunk the predominant concept that a life of luxury, superfluous wealth, and avarice was the "good life." He was a great iconoclast. He tells us that society and concupiscence can enervate us horribly. An ascetic exsistence is the only path to truth and spirtual elation, and society is a malediction upon us all.