QQuestionEnglish
QuestionEnglish
What does Thoreau mean by the statement, "The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation," and what does he believe is the cause?
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Step 1I'll analyze Thoreau's famous quote from "Walden" with a structured, scholarly approach:
Step 2: Context and Interpretation
Thoreau is critiquing the societal norms and economic structures of mid- 19th century America. By "quiet desperation," he means that most people: - Conform to societal expectations - Work jobs they dislike - Pursue material wealth over personal fulfillment - Suppress their true desires and potential
Final Answer
Thoreau argues that most people unconsciously accept unfulfilling lives, suppressing their true potential due to economic pressures, social expectations, and fear of deviation from established norms. His statement critiques a society that values conformity over individual authenticity and spiritual growth.
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