None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
City life is millions of people being lonesome together.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the paradox of urban living where individuals can feel isolated despite being surrounded by many others.
Henry David Thoreau's quote highlights a profound insight into the nature of city life, where the sheer volume of people can create a sense of loneliness and disconnection among individuals. In a bustling urban environment, the physical proximity of millions does not guarantee emotional or social connection, leading many to experience feelings of solitude even in throngs of bustling crowds. This phenomenon raises questions about the human experience and the fundamental need for meaningful connections in an increasingly crowded world.
Themes
CityLifeLonelinessPeopleConnection
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about urban development, one might say, 'As Thoreau observed, city life is millions of people being lonesome together, highlighting the need for community spaces.'
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes →Through want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
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As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
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