Building Quote by Edward Abbey
“To the Technocrats: Have mercy on us. Relax a bit, take time out for simple pleasures. For example, the luxuries of electricity, indoor plumbing, central heating, instant electronic communication and such, have taught me to relearn and enjoy the basic human satisfactions of dipping water from a cold clear mountain stream; of building a wood fire in a cast-iron stove; of using long winter nights for making music, making things, making love; of writing long letters, in longhand with a fountain pen, to the few people on this earth I truly care about.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Joy of Simple Living,” 1975
A plea to modern societies to rediscover basic, tactile pleasures and slow, mindful living amidst technological comforts.
In simple terms: Modern life should include simple, hands‑on activities.
Balance tech with nature.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- camping
- hand‑written letters
- fire‑making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What simple habit can you re‑introduce?
- How does unplugging improve wellbeing?
Technology can dominate, making simplicity feel foreign.