Henry David Thoreau

An enthusiastic and intelligent interpretation of the Sage of Walden, by an eminent critic, formerly with The Nation. Well- written, closely reasoned book which adroitly intertwines the life of Henry Thoreau and his work, making clear their intimate connection and at the same time analyzing the significance of the writings, stressing the importance of the voluminous, only partly published Journal. Krutch is a somewhat despairing admirer of Thoreau's cult of simplicity- feeling that its lesson might have saved us some of today's morass. He has some interesting ideas on Emerson's influence - taking issue with some critics who give it too much stress. And he traces Thoreau's importance as a revolutionist and reformer - a facet increasingly accepted today. Appreciation in sensitive and literary circles will great this work. (Kirkus Reviews)