Cold and hunger seem more friendly to my nature than those methods which men have adopted and advise to ward them off.

We are for the most part more lonely when we go abroad among men than when we stay in our chambers.

All perception of truth is the detection of an analogy.

It seems as if the more youthful and impressible streams can hardly resist the numerous invitations and temptations to leave theirnative beds and run down their neighbors' channels.

There is an incessant influx of novelty into the world, and yet we tolerate incredible dullness. When sometimes I am reminded that the mechanics and shopkeepers stay in their shops not only all the forenoon, but all the afternoon too, sitting with crossed legs, so many of them - as if the legs were made to sit upon, and not to stand or walk upon.

A stereotyped but unconscious despair is concealed even under what are called the games and amusements of mankind.

I found in myself, and still find, an instinct toward a higher, or, as it is named, spiritual life, as do most men, and another toward a primitive rank and savage one, and I reverence them both. I love the wild not less than the good.