Henry David Thoreau: Surveyor of the Soul

For Henry David Thoreau, to learn what questions were important in life required involvement with nature. In this film by mono-named director Huey, Thoreau’s strong affinity for the natural world is clearly manifested in the serene beauty of his home at Walden Pond, along with the outdoor places he visited. Bill McKibben, the late Howard Zinn, Robert Bly, and other scholars and writers here discuss the life and work of this famed 19th-century writer. Residing for most of his life in Concord, MA, Thoreau was instrumental in improving the process of making lead pencils for his father’s factory. After attending Harvard University, he returned to Concord and built a house near Walden Pond in order to live close to nature. Stone posts outline the location of the original 10 x 15 ft. dwelling, and a replica stands nearby where a knowledgeable guide answers questions. The Walden Project, founded by Matt Schlein, features educational projects in which high school students read and write at Walden Pond while gaining an appreciation for nature (the film beautifully captures the colors of the pond and woods in all four seasons). Thoreau surveyed Walden Pond and areas around Concord (drawings show the detail of his observations and measurements), spoke out against slavery, and wrote about civil disobedience. Featuring traditional songs and original music, this documentary capturing important aspects of Thoreau’s life and writings is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Root)