How Does Thoreau Use Figurative Language In Walden

Men who indulge in philanthropy and maintain the poor as well as they maintain themselves because it’s a moral calling to do good are not necessarily good men. Henry Thoreau, author of “Walden”; argues that philanthropy is “overrated” and that it is selfish to “Stand between any man and his genius”. Thoreau emphasizes the gift of living and cherishing accomplishments stating them as “Blessings to mankind”, he uses figurative language,ethos, and pathos appeals, to demonstrate how he views society.
One method Thoreau uses to expose the fallacies of philanthropy is his use of figurative language to develop a fervent but disparaging tone. Thoreau uses personification to give the act of benevolence an odor, when he states “There is no odor so bad as that which arises from goodness tainted”. He uses personification to demonstrate the perception of a “Good man” is being …show more content…
He includes this to embellish he needed to have the freedom to think accordingly and not just teach to make money. Therefore, he decided to live as he desires and write what he believes. Thoreau reminds society “I desire that there may be as many different persons in the world as possible; but I would have each one be very careful to find out and pursue his own way”. He includes this quote to emphasize that people should love the gift of living and find virtue in their accomplishment because it is what they have chosen to do. He ends the chapter, leaving the impression of “ If I had nothing to do — for the devil finds employment for the idle — I might try my hand at some such pastime as that”, belittling philanthropy again. Throughout the chapter economics part five Thoreau uses figurative language to develop a fervent and disparaging tone. Thoreau uses both an ethical and pathetic appeal to embellish his belief in praising feats achieved through dedication to