The Depths of Eloquence

Allow the miracle — not just the small one you desire or imagine, but the universal one that brought you here to wonder at the stars, and which reveals itself in spontaneous, infinitely wise order. Why seek wealth, or an end to your private suffering, when you are already the entire cosmos?

If it takes effort to smile, work at it a little harder. Let a little light into those wrinkles. Add some new ones. With some practice, your whole body will smile, and your entire outlook will be transformed.

Thoreau’s journal, March 7 and March 8, 1854. To Annursnack. Mountain cranberry.

I wrote a letter for an Irishman night before last, sending for his wife in Ireland to come to this country. One sentence which he dictated was, “Don’t mind the rocking of the vessel, but take care of the children that they be not lost overboard.”

The Rambler, Numb. 16. Saturday, May 12, 1750.

Some who the depths of eloquence have found, / In that unnavigable stream were drown’d. —Dryden

The column features a ridiculous letter from “Misellus,” blaming “Mr. Rambler” for encouraging him to publish his own writing, for when, upon doing so, he finds himself spending large sums of money entertaining an ever-growing congratulatory throng whose unconditional praise knows no bounds.

October 30, 2023.

[ 1913 ]