Henry David Thoreau, born on July 12, 1817, in Concord, Massachusetts, is one of the most influential American philosophers and writers of the 19th century. His life and work have profoundly shaped American literature and thought.

Thoreau grew up in Concord, surrounded by the nature he would come to cherish. He studied at Harvard university from 1833 to 1837, where he developed his critical thinking and interest in classical literature. After his studies, he briefly became a teacher but quickly resigned to protest corporal punishment.

In 1837, Thoreau met Ralph Waldo Emerson, who became his mentor and friend. This meeting was decisive, as it introduced him to transcendentalism, a philosophical and literary movement that would deeply influence his thinking. transcendentalism advocated the importance of nature and individual freedom , themes that would become central to Thoreau's work.

In 1845, Thoreau undertook what would become his most famous experiment: he built a cabin near Walden Pond, a few miles from Concord, where he lived simply for two years. This experience would give birth to his masterpiece, "walden; or, life in the woods" published in 1854. In this work, Thoreau explores themes of self-sufficiency , voluntary simplicity, and communion with nature.

Thoreau was not only a contemplative naturalist but also an engaged thinker. In 1849, he published his essay " resistance to civil government" (later known as "civil disobedience") , which would become a reference for civil disobedience movements. He firmly opposed slavery and actively participated in the "Underground Railroad", a clandestine network helping fugitive slaves escape to the north.

Thoreau continued to write and observe nature until the end of his life. He died of tuberculosis on May 6, 1862, at the age of 44. Although his fame was modest during his lifetime, his influence has continued to grow after his death, making him one of the most original and profound American authors.

Thoreau's style is characteristic of developing American writing: often familiar , direct and giving the impression of a simple conversation that reveals, upon second reading , a deeper complexity.

E.B White, an admirer of Thoreau , described his style as "prose both strictly disciplined and wildly abandoned".

Thoreau advocated for economy of expression in his writing. He sought to communicate his ideas concisely and powerfully , avoiding unnecessary embellishments.

His writing is marked by a telegraphic urgency , as if reporting fresh news from nature. His descriptions of the countryside around Concord have the vividness and intensity of journalistic reporting.

Thoreau's naturalist writings skillfully integrate direct observation and cataloging with transcendentalist interpretations of nature and wilderness. This fusion of science and philosophy is characteristic of his approach.

Thoreau's writing process was methodical and iterative. He began with fiel notes, which became journal entries, then were transformed into lectures, then essays, and finally books. This process allowed him to constantly refine his ideas and style.

Thoreau's writing is imbued with various philosophical influences, ranging from stoic philosophy to Hindu and Buddhist insights, European idealism , and romanticism. This diversity of influences is reflected in the richness and depth of his thought.

In conclusion, Henry David Thoreau remains a major figure in American literature and philosophy. His unique writing style , combining meticulous observation of nature with deep philosophical reflection, continues to inspire and challenge readers ti this day. His life and work remain a powerful testimony to the importance of simplicity , individuality , and communion with nature.

Key themes:

1. natural economy and interconnectedness
2. parental instincts in animals
3. adaptation and survival strategies

Summary:

White's letters describe various observations of animal behavior and natural phenomena. He notes:

• The habit of cattle gathering in ponds during hot days, which inadvertently feeds fish through their droppings.
• The fierce protective instinct of hens towards their chicks, which later turns to indifference
• Adaptive behaviors of birds, such as:
• - Flycatchers shielding their nest from intense heat
• -a willow-wren camouflaging its nest
• The strong maternal instinct of a field mouse carrying its young
• The paradoxical behavior of some animals devouring their young when disturbed

White's writing style is observational and reflective , showing a deep appreciation for the intricacies of nature.

Key themes:

1. Humanity's disconnection from nature
2. the transformative power of walking in nature
3. The hidden beauty and mysteries of the natural world

Summary:

Thoreau's essay explores the relationship between humans and nature, emphasizing:

• the general lack of appreciation for nature among people
• His personal feeling of living on the "border" of the natural world
• The ability of nature to transform familiar landscapes into something extraordinary
• the serene and timeless quality of nature, contrasted with human society
• The decline of profound thoughts in human minds, likened to the decrease of pigeons in New England forests
• The importance of elevating oneself (literally and figuratively) to gain new perspectives

Thoreau's writing style is more philosophical and introspective compared to white's , using poetic language and metaphors to convey his ideas about nature and human society.

Comparative notes:

• Both authors show a deep reverence for nature and its intricacies
• white focuses more on specific observations of animal behavior , while Thoreau explores broader philosophical concepts about humanity's relationship with nature.
• Both writers emphasize the importance of close observation and appreciation of the natural world.

This summary provides an overview of the main points and themes in the given excerpts from White and Thoreau, highlighting their different approaches to writing about nature.