Altars Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“I keep a mountain anchored off eastward a little way, which I ascend in my dreams both awake and asleep. Its broad base spreads over a village or two, which does not know it; neither does it know them, nor do I when I ascend it. I can see its general outline as plainly now in my mind as that of Wachusett. I do not invent in the least, but state exactly what I see. I find that I go up it when I am light-footed and earnest. It ever smokes like an altar with its sacrifice. I am not aware that a single villager frequents it or knows of it. I keep this mountain to ride instead of a horse.”
About This Quote
Source Journal: "Mountain Dream", 1859
Imagining a personal mountain symbolizes inner aspirations that guide dreams and actions.
In simple terms: Imagined goals guide inner journeys.
Key Takeaway
Visualize and pursue inner aspirations.
Themes
imagination
aspiration
inner journey
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- goal setting
- creative visualization
- mindfulness
- personal growth
Key Concepts
symbolism
self‑reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal mountain are you climbing?
- How can you make your vision tangible?
A Different Perspective
Dreams may stay abstract without concrete steps.
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