Skip to content

Coarse Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“For one that comes with a pencil to sketch or sing, a thousand come with an axe or rifle. What a coarse and imperfect use Indiansand hunters make of nature! No wonder that their race is so soon exterminated.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
Download Open image
“For one that comes with a pencil to sketch or sing, a thousand come with an axe or rifle. What a coarse and imperfect use Indiansand hunters make of nature! No wonder that their race is so soon exterminated.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Essay: Nature and Man, 1855

The writer contrasts gentle creators with violent exploiters, lamenting the destructive use of nature by hunters.

In simple terms: Hunters misuse nature, leading to their own downfall.

Key Takeaway

Respect nature and avoid violent exploitation.

Themes

environment violence colonialism survival

Mood

concerned critical

Type

philosophical environmental

When to use this quote

  • hunting practices
  • resource extraction
  • environmental policy
  • indigenous rights

Key Concepts

ethical stewardship cultural critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do we have toward nature?
  • How can cultures balance survival and stewardship?
A Different Perspective

The statement generalizes all hunters and ignores sustainable practices.

2.7 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Henry David Thoreau

Explore all 3,376 Henry David Thoreau quotes

More Coarse quotes

Browse all 152 Coarse quotes