Skip to content

Great saying by great authors Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“Would it not be worth while to discover nature in Milton? be native to the universe? I, too, love Concord best, but I am glad when I discover, in oceans and wildernesses far away, the material of a million Concords: indeed, I am lost, unless I discover them” quote by Henry David Thoreau
Download Open image
“Would it not be worth while to discover nature in Milton? be native to the universe? I, too, love Concord best, but I am glad when I discover, in oceans and wildernesses far away, the material of a million Concords: indeed, I am lost, unless I discover them”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Essay: Nature and the Self, 1855

Discovering nature beyond familiar surroundings expands one's sense of self, preventing feeling lost without such exploration.

In simple terms: Exploring distant nature prevents feeling lost.

Key Takeaway

Seek new natural experiences to enrich identity.

Themes

nature self-discovery exploration

Mood

contemplative poetic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • hiking
  • travel
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

transcendentalism environmental philosophy personal growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What natural places inspire you?
  • How does wilderness influence your identity?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize nature over practical realities.

4.1 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Henry David Thoreau

Explore all 3,376 Henry David Thoreau quotes

More Great saying by great authors quotes

Browse all 605 Great saying by great authors quotes