Walden: Life in the Woods

By: Henry David Thoreau

Narrated by: Drake Johnson

Length: 11 hrs and 35 mins

Publisher's Summary

Thoreau's classic account of the solitary life, describing his attempts to simplify his life and sort out his priorities by living alone in a cabin beside Walden Pond for nearly two years, is one of the most influential books ever written. The bible of the environmental movement, Walden vividly portrays Thoreau's reverence for nature and his understanding of the idea that nature is made up of crucially interrelated parts.

Public Domain (P)2020 Hanley Media

Some of the most beautifully constructed sentence

Some of the most beautifully constructed sentences I have ever read! Walden is an ode to the beauty of nature and yet a sad reflection when read with the state of contemporary consumerism in mind.

The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.

The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation. What is called resignation is confirmed desperation.”
― Henry David Thoreau, Walden

“The millions are awake enough for physical labor; but only one in a million is awake enough for effective intellectual exertion, only one in a hundred millions to a poetic or divine life. To be awake is to be alive.”
― Henry David Thoreau, Walden

America's first blogger

This is required reading in most American high schools, but this narratives was so entertaining. The voice came across like a present day home improvement and/or self-improvement blogger, including improbable DIY work description and self-important editorial argument.

The American Buddha... ;-)

This has a very Eastern feeling to it and often I was reminded of the teachings of Buddha.

You will also find a deep love of literature

You will also find a deep love of literature, philosophy and a reverence for classical thought eastern and western, a reflection of a mind that has absorbed so much so profoundly. This is a book that must be reread and question, it is beautifully written with so much depth and importance it should not be forgotten but studied, recommended, shared till the end of time.

Minimalistic Masterpiece

Henry shares unbiased views to explore a humble perspective of life in the woods. What is too little or too much? He talks about the present and how to stay there, how to mind your own business and the price of keeping up with the Jones'. If your looking for a read that hits you with common sense and timely quotes that you'll want to hear over, this read is for you.

Classic literature spoiled by inept narration

Thoreau's essays and observations are insightful and thought-provoking. Unfortunately, the narration detracts significantly from the experience. Incorrect pronunciation, poor phrasing, and flat delivery are causing me to consider turning off the recording and reading the book for myself.

Inspired

The simple and profound that surpasses the events of time. A great piece by Mr: Thoreau.

this book is super interesting I loved it a lot

this book is super interesting I loved it a lot it's full of sarcasm and a lot of interesting factors that I liked a lot it's not the usual book and it's a bit strange to listen to it but I think about it as a unique artistic piece the book was very very good brilliant even

A reminder of easy enjoyment.

A reminder of easy enjoyment. Not a book to take to heart, or very seriously. But the experiment temps you to cull the inefficiencies of modern living and see what more simple experience might appear.

Disappointing narration

Drake Johnson’s nasal tone is very jarring and his mispronunciation of some of the words in the text are ludicrous. Spoilt it for me completely.