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The Winged Life : the Poetic Voice of Henry David Thoreau

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Not a biographical sketch of Thoreau in a typical sense, but in a poetic one. Every word Thoreau wrote was essential, and Robert Bly has selected rich, complex prose selections from "Walden" and other writings, along with Thoreau's little-published poetry, to shine light into the soul of one of our most important American writers. Beautifully illustrated with woodcuts, a careful positioning of text on the page - simple, elegant, compelling. Bly's comments on Thoreau's writings and life, and on the contexts in which Thoreau can be seen, provide an excellent structure to his large body of work, and a wonderful guide to further reading. If we had all started our high school readings of Thoreau with this book, there would be no market for the current plethora of books on simplifying life. Our "Waldens" would be well-worn. It's all here, simply, beautifully, essentially

Dozens upon dozens of Thoreau quote books have been produced since his death. What makes this one soar above the rest? (a) Robert Bly's choice of selections, (b) his entertaining and insightful commentaries that begin each section, and (c) Michael McCurdy's exquisite woodcuts, suitable for framing. The reviewer for School Library Journal miscounted; nearly 100 prose and poem selections are presented here, illustrated by seven McCurdy woodcuts. Bly approaches Thoreau's writings in five ways, then adds examples of poetry, journal entries, and book excerpts to illustrate his analysis. His fresh approach will resound with ardent Thoreauvians and will encourage newcomers to read deeper into the work.

This book was originally published to celebrate the 140th anniversary of Thoreau's retreat to Walden Pond. It would make a great gift to someone who's read only "Walden."