1. In what way are the following qualities of Walden Pond symbolic of human qualities for which Thoreau thinks we should strive?
Thoreau personifies the waters of Walden Pond by having the pond contain symbols of humanity we should strive for. The depth and purity of the water is a "deep green well", as people should be multi-dimensional with depth to their character as well as be pure of heart and mind. Thoreau states that "all Concord waters have two colors at least;" the one viewed at a distance, and the proper one when viewed close-up. This is similar to how people seem to have two personalities: one we have for strangers, and a more personal one that our friends and family see. "Lying between the earth and the heavens" it partakes of both. The same is said for people, since when you look at them from different angles, their positions on certain subjects can change with the surrounding landscape. The pond is "earth's eye" since one can look into it and measure their own nature, allowing them to look into their place in nature and the earth. The pond's "glassy surface" acts as a mirror as it allows an onlooker to gaze into the purity of nature and see the imperfections in themselves.
- Its depth and the purity of its water
- Its colors, blue and green, and its position between land and sky
- Its role as "earth's eye"
- The pond as a mirror
Thoreau personifies the waters of Walden Pond by having the pond contain symbols of humanity we should strive for. The depth and purity of the water is a "deep green well", as people should be multi-dimensional with depth to their character as well as be pure of heart and mind. Thoreau states that "all Concord waters have two colors at least;" the one viewed at a distance, and the proper one when viewed close-up. This is similar to how people seem to have two personalities: one we have for strangers, and a more personal one that our friends and family see. "Lying between the earth and the heavens" it partakes of both. The same is said for people, since when you look at them from different angles, their positions on certain subjects can change with the surrounding landscape. The pond is "earth's eye" since one can look into it and measure their own nature, allowing them to look into their place in nature and the earth. The pond's "glassy surface" acts as a mirror as it allows an onlooker to gaze into the purity of nature and see the imperfections in themselves.
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