Skip to content

Accustomed Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“Many of the phenomena of Winter are suggestive of an inexpressible tenderness and fragile delicacy. We are accustomed to hear this king described as a rude and boisterous tyrant; but with the gentleness of a lover he adorns the tresses of Summer.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
Download Open image
“Many of the phenomena of Winter are suggestive of an inexpressible tenderness and fragile delicacy. We are accustomed to hear this king described as a rude and boisterous tyrant; but with the gentleness of a lover he adorns the tresses of Summer.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Essay: “Winter” in Walden, 1854

Winter, a harsh season, reveals a delicate, tender side, contrasting with its usual harsh image.

In simple terms: Winter shows hidden softness despite its roughness.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate subtle beauty in seemingly harsh conditions.

Themes

nature seasonality perception beauty

Mood

reflective poetic

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • poetry
  • landscape painting
  • seasonal festivals
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

contradiction delicacy transformation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What gentle qualities can you find in difficult times?
  • How does perception change the experience of a season?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may romanticize winter, ignoring its hardships.

3.8 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Henry David Thoreau

Explore all 3,376 Henry David Thoreau quotes

More Accustomed quotes

Browse all 543 Accustomed quotes