Answer:
See below
Step-by-step explanation:
In his essay "Walking," Henry David Thoreau advocates for the value of walking in nature as a means of achieving self-discovery, spiritual growth, and a deeper connection with the natural world. To effectively convey his message, Thoreau makes several rhetorical choices that appeal to the reader's emotions, logic, and sense of morality.
One of Thoreau's primary rhetorical strategies is the use of vivid, sensory language to paint a vivid picture of the natural world. He describes the sights, sounds, and smells of the woods in intricate detail, using sensory imagery to transport the reader into the natural environment. For example, he writes, "The woods were made for the hunters of dreams, the brooks for the fishers of song; to the hunters of dreams the woods are full of precious stones, and of birds with finer plumage, and of flowers with stranger fragrance than any hothouse or garden can boast" (Thoreau). By creating a rich sensory experience for the reader, Thoreau inspires a sense of wonder and reverence for the natural world, encouraging readers to explore and appreciate the world around them.
Another rhetorical strategy employed by Thoreau is the use of metaphor and analogy to convey complex ideas. He compares walking to "sauntering," a term that he suggests comes from the French "sainte-terre," meaning "holy land." By using this metaphor, Thoreau elevates walking to a spiritual activity, suggesting that it can lead to a sense of transcendence and connection with the divine. He also compares the natural world to a great library, full of wisdom and knowledge, waiting to be discovered by those who take the time to explore it. These analogies help to clarify Thoreau's message and make it more accessible to the reader.
Thoreau also employs rhetorical appeals to logic and reason to support his argument. He argues that walking is essential to physical and mental health, and that modern society's focus on productivity and efficiency has led us to neglect this vital aspect of human experience. He writes, "The incessant anxiety and strain of some is a well-nigh incurable form of disease. We are made to exaggerate the importance of what work we do; and yet how much is not done by us!...We should treat ourselves as innocent and untried beings, whose susceptibility to temptation is not to be measured by experience" (Thoreau). By using logical appeals, Thoreau makes a convincing case for the value of walking in nature, suggesting that it is not only enjoyable, but necessary for our well-being.
In conclusion, Thoreau's essay "Walking" is a powerful call to reconnect with the natural world through the simple act of walking. By using vivid sensory language, metaphor and analogy, and logical appeals, Thoreau inspires readers to explore the natural world, and to find meaning and purpose in the process. His message is as relevant today as it was in his own time, reminding us that by slowing down and taking the time to experience the world around us, we can find peace, happiness, and a sense of connection with the natural world.