This week we read an excerpt from Thoreau's essay "Walden" where he began an experiment in what he thought of as "essential living”— living simply, studying the natural world, and seeking truth within him. On land owned by Emerson near Concord, Massachusetts, Thoreau built a small cabin by Walden Pond and lived there for more than two years, writing and studying nature. Walden was the record of his experiences. For this week's discussion, I would like for you to read this short article above & compare the 2 texts in your response. In “Thoreau Still Beckons, if I Can Take My Laptop,” (above) Cynthia G. La Ferle argues that “making choices is so much more difficult in a culture fueled by sheer busyness and commercialism. There are few places ... where one can escape.” Do you agree that it would be more challenging for a contemporary American to live as Thoreau did? Explain why or why not, using details from both texts to support your opinion (Walden from our CommonLit reading & the article above by Cynthia G. La Gerle). (25 points for your response).