... when Thoreau likes to commune with himself indoors. It is in winter that he sets himself the task of measuring the pond, a symbol of detecting his own spiritual depth in solitude. Then spring comes back with the melting of ice and awakening of animals. The cycle of season is thus a cycle of life and spiritual regeneration. The foremost symbol in Walden is the lake itself. Standing on the frozen pond, Thoreau notices that "Heaven is under our feet as ... turns the water to a symbol of heavenly purity available to human beings on the earth. The pond is not only a natural phenomenon but al...

• Word Count: 1286
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School