In Walden by Henry David Thoreau
Explain this quote: "We do not ride upon the railroad; it rides upon us . . . . " Give this some thought; you can get what Thoreau is saying.
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In this quote from Walden, Thoreau is conveying the idea that while it may seem like we are the ones utilizing and benefiting from technological advancements like the railroad, in reality, these advancements exert a significant influence over our lives and even shape the way we think and act.
When Thoreau says, "We do not ride upon the railroad; it rides upon us," he reveals his concern about the impact of modernity on human beings. The railroad symbolizes the industrial progress and the rapid pace of life that was prevalent during Thoreau's time. It represents a kind of external force that controls our lives, dictates our routines, and limits our freedom.
By stating that the railroad rides upon us, Thoreau suggests that we become subservient to the demands of modernization. We conform to the schedules and expectations set by society, sacrificing our personal values, solitude, and connection with nature. The railroad becomes an embodiment of the societal pressures and obligations that infringe upon our individuality.
Thoreau's quote encourages us to reflect on the ways in which we allow external influences to dominate our lives. It urges us to question whether we are truly in control of our own destinies or if we have surrendered that control to the demands and expectations imposed by modern society.
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