READING WALDEN
As you read Walden, pay attention once again to the marks of Emersonian influence. In very literal and material terms, Emerson was Thoreau’s mentor. Emerson encouraged Thoreau to keep a journal, and allowed Thoreau to build and live on his land near Walden Pond. So pay attention to ways in which Thoreau draws on Emerson’s ideas and concerns. As you did in reading Whitman, consider ways in which Thoreau modifies Emerson’s ideas. Do they, for example, have the same view of nature? Of the body? Of society?
Be aware, as you read this text, that Thoreau’s claims about complete self-sufficiency are not entirely accurate. During his stay at the pond, Thoreau frequently dined with the Emersons, and, it is rumored, sent his laundry home as well (note his concession on page 1750 about "washing and mending, which for the most part were done out of the house"). Thoreau isn’t simply lying, however. In the course of Walden, Thoreau repeatedly warns us not to take his account too literally. Watch for these warnings, and consider their implications. Why doesn’t he describe his time at Walden Pond as it really happened? How are we to read his narrative, between Thoreau’s extravagant claims and his repeated reminders to take them with caution? Does it matter whether it’s accurate or not? Are accuracy and truth the same in this text? Does Thoreau expect us to imitate him, and if so, what would that mean? If not, what does he expect us to do with this text?
More generally, what does this text suggest about reading? Does Thoreau share Emerson’s view of great books and great authors, or does he modify it? And does he advocate the same approach to reading nature? Consider carefully the central figure of the pond. How does it function in the text? Does it maintain a consistent function, or does it change and/or evolve in the course of Walden?
Consider the way time works in this text. Note that Thoreau moves out to Walden on July 4, but claims that this is "by accident" (1762). What are the implications of this detail? More broadly, consider Thoreau’s representation of the seasons. How does the cycle of the seasons fit into the overall plot of Walden?
Pay attention as well to the surface details of Thoreau’s text. What kinds of language does he use? Does he make jokes or puns, and if so, what kind? What literary devices does he favor? Note his fondness for the parable. What parables does he use in this text? Are his parables traditional, or does he find unusual subjects for his parables?
Note, also, that we will not be performing a political reading of Walden, for the most part. But if such a reading interests you, it can be interesting and productive, and I encourage you to pursue it. Feel free to post your thoughts to the newsgroup, and/or to see me in my office.