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I want nothing new, if I can have but a tithe of the old…

“I want nothing new, if I can have but a tithe of the old secured to me. I will spurn all wealth beside. Think of the consummate folly of attempting to go away from here! When the constant endeavor should be to get nearer and nearer here!” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“I want nothing new, if I can have but a tithe of the old secured to me. I will spurn all wealth beside. Think of the consummate folly of attempting to go away from here! When the constant endeavor should be to get nearer and nearer here!”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Clinging to the past prevents growth; staying close to one's roots fosters continual progress.

In simple terms: Seek stability, not endless novelty.

Key Takeaway

Value continuity over fleeting change.

Themes

stability growth tradition

Mood

contemplative steady

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • personal development
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

philosophy selfreliance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What 'old' aspects anchor you?
  • How can you balance tradition with innovation?
A Different Perspective

Excessive novelty can lead to loss of identity.

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