The Respectable Folks
This work explores the tension between individualism and conformity in a society that values respectability above all else. The narrative follows a young man who rejects the conventional norms of his community to forge his own path, leading to a series of conflicts with those around him. The story delves into themes of identity, morality, and the human condition, raising questions about what it means to be a responsible member of society while still maintaining one's autonomy. Through its exploration of these complex issues, the work offers a nuanced critique of societal expectations and the consequences of nonconformity. Ultimately, the narrative presents a thought-provoking examination of the human experience, encouraging readers to reevaluate their own values and priorities in light of the protagonist's struggles with respectability.
By Henry David Thoreau · First published 1849 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature · 175 words
First lines
The respectable folks, -- Where dwell they?
They whisper in the oaks, And they sigh in the hay;
Summer and winter, night and day, Out on the meadow, there dwell they.
They never die, Nor snivel, nor cry, Nor ask our pity With a wet eye.
What this Textopian page supports
The Respectable Folks is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry David Thoreau, dated 1849 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry David Thoreau
- Date: 1849 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature, Transcendentalism
- Length: 175 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- The Human Sacrifice by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Free Love by Henry David Thoreau
- Friendship by Henry David Thoreau
- And They Are Dumb by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Oh Man by Franklin P. Adams
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential and metaphysical ideas about life, nature, and the human condition.
- Nature — The imagery and references to natural elements like oaks, hay, and meadows highlight a focus on nature.
- Transcendentalism — The work reflects transcendentalist themes of self-reliance, the inherent goodness of nature, and the interconnectedness of all things.
Tags
Philosophy · Social Commentary · American Literature · 19th Century · Satire · Critique of Society · Morality · Ethics · Societal Norms · Conformity · Individualism · Nonconformity