America Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“I believe that water is the only drink for a wise man: wine is not so noble a liquor; and think of dashing the hopes of a morningwith a cup of warm coffee, or of an evening with a dish of tea! Ah, how low I fall when I am tempted by them! Even music may be intoxicating. Such apparently slight causes destroyed Greece and Rome, and will destroy England and America.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Walden, 1854
Only water sustains wisdom; indulgent drinks and comforts tempt and distract, leading societies to ruin.
In simple terms: Water is wise; other drinks tempt.
Key Takeaway
Choose simplicity.
Themes
wisdom
temperance
temptation
Mood
reflective
serene
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- dietary habits
- social rituals
- national policy
- personal discipline
Key Concepts
stoicism
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What simple pleasures support your well‑being?
- How do you resist harmful temptations?
A Different Perspective
Total abstinence may be unrealistic for many.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
