Now Comes Good Sailing: Writers Reflect on Henry David Thoreau

An anthology of original pieces on Henry David Thoreau, the author of Walden, features essays by Jennifer Finney Boylan, Kristen Case, George Howe Colt, Gerald Early, Paul Elie, Will Eno, Adam Gopnik, Lauren Groff, Celeste Headlee, Pico Iyer, Alan Lightman, James Marcus, Megan Marshall, Michelle Nijhuis, Zoë Pollak, Jordan Salama, Tatiana Schlossberg, A. O. Scott, Mona Simpson, Stacey Vanek Smith, Wen Stephenson, Robert Sullivan, Amor Towles, Sherry Turkle, Geoff Wisner, and Rafia Zakaria. The book explores how Thoreau has influenced and inspired modern writers, and why he matters more than ever in an age of climate, racial, and technological reckoning.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2023
Publisher: Princeton University Press

The world continues to grapple with the profound impact of Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862), the visionary author behind Walden, "Civil Disobedience," and other timeless works. A pioneer in environmentalism, vegetarianism, abolitionism, and criticism of materialism and technology, Thoreau's ideas and writings have resonated across generations. In Now Comes Good Sailing, a captivating anthology featuring the work of twenty-seven renowned contemporary writers, these authors delve into the enduring influence and relevance of Thoreau in our contemporary world.

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lauren Groff finds herself retreating to a rural house and writing hut, seeking solace amidst the chaos. However, as she struggles to find her voice, she rereads Walden, a book that has always held a special place in her heart. Pico Iyer, in turn, reflects on how Thoreau's ideas provided him with an unexpected guidebook to Japan, offering a fresh perspective on the country's rich cultural heritage. Gerald Early delves into the profound connection between Walden and the Black quest for nature, highlighting the ways in which Thoreau's writings have inspired generations of African Americans to connect with the natural world.

Rafia Zakaria explores the concept of solitude, drawing upon Thoreau's experiences in Concord and her native Pakistan to shed light on the importance of finding inner peace and tranquility in a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming. Mona Simpson follows in Thoreau's footsteps, embarking on a journey to Mount Katahdin in Maine, where she experiences the same sense of awe and wonder that the author did centuries ago. Jennifer Finney Boylan delves into the intersection of Thoreau's writings and her own experience of coming out as a trans woman, offering a powerful and personal reflection on identity and belonging.

Adam Gopnik traces the profound influence of Thoreau on the renowned editor E. B. White, highlighting the ways in which Thoreau's ideas shaped White's literary style and vision. The anthology also features essays by Will Eno, Paul Elie, George Howe Colt, Celeste Headlee, Pico Iyer, Alan Lightman, James Marcus, Megan Marshall, Michelle Nijhuis, Zoë Pollak, Jordan Salama, Tatiana Schlossberg, A. O. Scott, Mona Simpson, Stacey Vanek Smith, Wen Stephenson, Robert Sullivan, Amor Towles, Sherry Turkle, Geoff Wisner, and Rafia Zakaria, each offering their unique perspectives on Thoreau's legacy.

In conclusion, Now Comes Good Sailing serves as a testament to the enduring power and relevance of Henry David Thoreau's writings. Through the diverse voices and perspectives of these twenty-seven leading writers, we gain a deeper understanding of Thoreau's ideas and their profound impact on our world. As we navigate the challenges of our contemporary era, his wisdom and insights continue to inspire us to live more intentionally, connect with nature, and strive for a more just and sustainable society.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691247953