the Thoreau Log.
30 June 1852. Concord, Mass.

Thoreau writes in his journal:

  Nature must be viewed humanly to be viewed at all; that is, her scenes must be associated with humane affections, such as are associated with one’s native place, for instance. She is most significant to a lover. A lover of Nature is preeminently a lover of man. If I have no friend, what is Nature to me? She ceases to be morally significant.

  7.30 P.M.—To stone bridge over Assabet. Moon nearly full; rose a little before sunset . . .

  The moon appears full. At first a mere white cloud. As soon as the sun sets, begins to grow brassy or obscure golden in the gross atmosphere. It is starlight about half an hour after sunset to-night; i.e. the first stars appear. The moon is now brighter, but not so yellowish. Ten or fifteen minutes after, the fireflies are observed . . .

(Journal, 4:163-164)

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