Why Read Thoreau's WALDEN?

What makes Henry David Thoreau's WALDEN one of the fundamental benchmarks in the canon of American literature and philosophy? What role has the book played in the development of modern thought, and what relevance does it have for today's reader? Noted scholar Daniel G. Payne (SUNY, Oneonta) ponders these and other questions, and in the course of his meditation considers Henry Thoreau's influences and inspirations along with his biases and priorities - revealing a complex man intent on living a life not only provocatively unique but also carefully examined.