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Under the one word "house" are included the schoolhouse…

“Under the one word "house" are included the schoolhouse, the almshouse, the jail, the tavern, the dwellinghouse; and the meanest shed or cave in which men live contains elements of all these. But nowhere on the earth stands the entire and perfect house.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“Under the one word "house" are included the schoolhouse, the almshouse, the jail, the tavern, the dwellinghouse; and the meanest shed or cave in which men live contains elements of all these. But nowhere on the earth stands the entire and perfect house.”

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.

Human dwellings reflect many social functions, yet no perfect home exists.

In simple terms: Homes serve many roles but are imperfect.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the limits of any place.

Themes

society architecture human nature

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • family housing
  • historical preservation

Key Concepts

social institutions imperfection community

Questions to Reflect On

  • What aspects of your living space reflect community?
  • How do you cope with imperfection?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing a perfect home can be unrealistic.

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