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Asleep Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“We are acquainted with a mere pellicle of the globe on which we live. Most have not delved six feet beneath the surface, nor leaped as many above it. We know not where we are. Beside, we are sound asleep nearly half our time.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“We are acquainted with a mere pellicle of the globe on which we live. Most have not delved six feet beneath the surface, nor leaped as many above it. We know not where we are. Beside, we are sound asleep nearly half our time.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Book: Walden, 1854

Human awareness is shallow; we barely explore the depths or heights of our world, remaining largely unaware.

In simple terms: We know little of the world and stay half‑asleep.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper understanding of your surroundings.

Themes

awareness exploration ignorance

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • education
  • science
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

Transcendentalism human limitation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What can you do to explore beyond the surface?
  • How does waking from mental sleep change life?
A Different Perspective

Our limited perception can lead to misguided actions.

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