An Aristocrat of the Spirit: Henry Miller on Henry David Thoreau

By living his own life in his own "eccentric" way, Thoreau demonstrated the futility and absurdity of the life of the (so-called) masses. It was a deep, rich life which yielded him the maximum of contentment. In the bare necessities he found adequate means for the enjoyment of life.

— Henry Miller

I love reading essays in which writers reflect on other writers. It’s like peering into a secret conversation between creative minds.

Whether they’re offering praise, critique, or a bit of both, there’s always some nugget of wisdom to uncover. I especially enjoy Jim Harrison’s take on Bukowski, the way Henry Miller delves into Rimbaud, and Mary Oliver’s poetic musings on Whitman.

There’s something fascinating about seeing one artist interpret another, capturing their essence through their own unique lens.

Today, I want to share a few passages from a remarkable essay by Henry Miller about Henry David Thoreau. It’s a beautifully written piece that truly captures Thoreau’s essence, offering a deep and thoughtful perspective on his work and philosophy.

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THERE are barely a half-dozen names in the history of America which have meaning for me. Thoreau's is one of them.