The phrases from Thoreau's "Walden" critique human habits of discontentment and time mismanagement. "We are determined to starve before we are hungry" suggests that people often complain about lack despite their comfort, rather than seeking true fulfillment through meaningful pursuits. The phrase "Men say a stitch in time saves nine, and so they take a thousand stitches to-day to save nine tomorrow" criticizes the obsession with time-saving techniques that ironically consume more time than they save.

The quote "We do not ride on the railroad; it rides upon us" by Thoreau signifies the idea that technological advancements, like the railroad, control and dictate our lives rather than serve us. Thoreau suggests that while we believe we are benefiting from such progress, in reality, it often dominates and shapes our existence, leading to a loss of individual freedom.

In Walden, Henry David Thoreau's concept of "quiet desperation" refers to the hollow, inauthentic lives many people lead, filled with conformity and superficial pursuits. Thoreau suggests that people are trapped in a cycle of work and trivial amusements, preventing true fulfillment. This inner turmoil, unacknowledged even to themselves, stems from misplaced priorities and a cluttered life. Thoreau advocates for simplicity and self-expression as a path to genuine happiness, contrasting this with the desperation of conformist living.

Thoreau's aphorism, although misattributed, suggests that people often pursue activities without understanding their deeper motivations. In today's society, this can be seen in the pursuit of material success or social status, where individuals may not realize they are actually seeking fulfillment, purpose, or connection.

In Walden, Thoreau discusses that a man who does not keep pace with his companions may be marching to the beat of a different drummer, emphasizing individualism and nonconformity. This idea aligns with Transcendentalist beliefs, which advocate for acting according to one's conscience rather than societal expectations.

Thoreau's phrase "keep your accounts on a thumbnail" in Walden advocates for simplicity in life by minimizing personal and financial obligations. He suggests reducing the number of affairs or debts to a manageable level, symbolically small enough to fit on a thumbnail. This idea aligns with the Transcendentalist values of self-reliance and connection to nature, emphasizing that life's focus should be on simplicity and personal well-being rather than societal demands.

In Walden, Thoreau advocates for individuality and self-reliance, criticizing societal conformity. He believes that true fulfillment and understanding come from personal introspection and living according to one's principles, rather than adhering to societal expectations. Thoreau's experiment at Walden Pond exemplifies his commitment to living authentically and independently.

Thoreau uses the bug in the wood in Walden to convey the lesson of embracing change and fighting for a renewed life. The bug, emerging from a 60-year-old table, symbolizes how one can resurrect and discover their true self despite unexpected circumstances. Thoreau likens this transformation to his own journey at Walden Pond, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one's destiny.

Thoreau argues that our lives "filter away" due to the overwhelming details and desires that distract us from meaningful living. He advocates for simplicity, suggesting that reducing our wants and focusing on essentials can free us from the burdens of excessive work and materialism. By desiring less and owning fewer possessions, we can spend more time engaging in fulfilling activities, like reading or enjoying nature, rather than being trapped in the cycle of work and consumption.

In Walden, Thoreau expresses self-reliance and individualism by advocating for a simple, deliberate lifestyle close to nature. He emphasizes the importance of personal introspection, independence from societal norms, and the pursuit of one's own path. Thoreau's experiment at Walden Pond demonstrates his belief in living authentically and self-sufficiently, free from material excess and external influences.