Henry David Thoreau Quotations: Life & Death
If we can forget, we have done somewhat; if we can remember, we have done somewhat. Let us remember this.—Journal, 7 July 1845
In my short experience of human life I have found that the outward obstacles which stood in my way were not living men but dead institutions.—Journal, 20 June 1846
It is life near the bone where it is sweetest.—Walden
Let the dead bury the dead. The best of them fairly ran down like a clock.—"A Plea for Captain John Brown"
Love your life, poor as it is.—Walden
Men die of fright and live of confidence.—Journal, 1850
On the death of a friend, we should consider that the fates through confidence have devolved on us the task of a double living, that we have hence forth to fulfill the promise of our friend's life also, in our own, to the world. —Journal, 28 February 1840
One does not soon learn the trade of life. That one may work out a true life requires more art and delicate skill than any other work.—Journal, 29 December 1841
One moment of serene and confident life is more glorious than a whole campaign of daring. We should be ready for all issues, not daring to die but daring to live.—Journal, 1839
Our life without love is coke and ashes.—A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers
