Simplicity, Simplicity, Simplicity.
Simplicity is a concept that has been adopted by many philosophical thinkers throughout history. It’s recognized as one of the most thought provoking and unique concepts ever grasped. Thoreau is a key example of simplicity; his concept was not only written but lived as well. Through his novel Walden, he exemplifies simplicity at its best and can be compared to many of the other philosophers of simplicity. “Let us first be as simple and well as Nature ourselves, dispel the clouds which hang over our brows, and take up a little life into our pores.” () Many could quote the many “simple” insights of Thoreau. But what does simplicity really mean to the famous writer? “A simple and independent mind does not toil at the bidding of any pri . . .
Thoreau tries to convey his dream through the few years of life we call Walden, but through it all, maybe the words of scientist Jim Horning sum it up best, “Nothing is as simple as we hope it will be. “Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity,” were his famous words. ” (62) Could it be because man fails to give up the silliness of fighting, or the stupidity of error in all that he does? Or is it that he continues to headache with thousands of problems a day, including those of others (62)? Whichever, the ignorance of man fails to allow him to achieve enlightenment and perfection. Though many is simply not enough to satisfy the dreams of a simple writer/philosopher by the name of Henry David Thoreau. Many have explored the idea of simplicity in their lives. Sounds simple enough doesn’t it? So then, why doesn’t the world comply? “Yet so far are we from simplicity and independence…” (43) Walden believes of the world. ” Thoreau’s simple idea may be simply more popular than what he believes. Simplicity wasn’t only the goal of Thoreau; many others have been affected by the enlightened concept. Almost 2,400 years earlier, the Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu was also exploring some very simple thoughts, “Embrace simplicity…Have few desires. Nations search day in and day out for the perfect society. ” (39) So Thoreau advices that the simple mind isn’t at the beckon call of any being above them, that the simple mind should be like the Shepard (60), the primitive man (25), and not like the ant, who lives meanly (62). Yet through hundred’s of years, man continues to chase after this dream. ” Thoreau would especially agree with the thoughts of Jessie Sampter (a pioneer Feminist and Zionist) who believes, “Simplicity is the peak of civilization.
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Acceptance Essays
