I am thoroughly enjoying reading John Adams, and I certainly agree with those who have commented on the relationship between John and Abigail. Also, it seems to me that if the simplistic life meant eating home-grown food, making clothes, and putting family first, the John Adams family would definitely qualify. On the other hand, according to David McCullough, Thomas Jefferson lived in quite a different world which included at least two-hundred slaves. While the food may have been grown on the Jefferson land, clothes made in the Jefferson home, and care given to the family, the lifestyles of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were hardly the same. Even the extent of patriotism differed. I have come to admire and respect the role John Adams played in the establishment of this great country thanks to McCullough's biography.
Another time, I would like to share all of my thoughts on Thoreau and Walden, but, alas, that is definitely for another day. For now, let it suffice to say that I have lost my teenage love for the "simple life" of Walden's pond and Thoreau's wisdom. There is much wisdom in Walden, but there is also much I have grown to dislike. The one truth that remains for me still, is the truth that Thoreau was a remarkable writer. He uses imagery and figures of speech absolutely beautifully.
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I'm glad you mentioned your change of heart about Thoreau. While I'm enjoying John Adams, I admit that I'm questioning my former fascination with Thoreau. Sometimes I want to tell him to get a real job and he might understand his neighbors better. Then again, it might be that upcoming testing marathon that is really dragging me down..
ReplyDeleteLadies, I am glad that I am not the only who has no fascination with Thoreau. He is a brilliant writer and I do like the way in which he expresses his feelings, concerns, etc. about life. However, I didn't enjoy reading him when I was in high school, I didn't enjoy teaching Walden when I taught Amer. Lit., and not too much has changed now.:) I agree that there are definitely days when we should stop and meditate, and reflect on the things around us. However, in today's world, I find there just aren't enough hours in the day to do that on a consistent basis. But I'm not sure that I would have made a very good New Englander either. Now, put me on Jefferson's plantation or on a Georgian veranda.......
ReplyDeleteAs I have been reading I have found myself caught in limbo about Thoreau. His thoughts are idealistic in some ways yet at the same time unrealistic. I am not enjoying Walden as much as I have been enjoying our other text John Adams. Thoreau had the luxury of being able to disappear from society when he found it to be complicated or in my opinion when it was convenient to do so.
ReplyDelete(I too have started Walden, am not looking forward to finishing it.) On the other hand, Abagail Adams makes me feel like a wimp, and a whiner. I have had the unfortunate experience of being alone and keeping up a home and property. I know I don’t live on nearly the same amount of property that the Adam’s did, but do know how difficult it is to make decisions regarding the care and upkeep. John Adams made a good decision when he proposed to Abagail. I also think he was smart to not rush into marriage, but waited for the right person and right moment. Much the same played out when he encouraged his peers and colleagues to put together the Declaration of Independence. Adams had an uncanny ability to wait for the “right moment.”
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