Thoreau’s book about the austere but happy life at Walden Pond propagated his fame worldwide. He built a small hut and began living an ascetic existence. He found it to be a felicitous experience. In this idyllic setting, he was able to spend his time reading, studying nature, writing, and thinking. Far from being indolent, he kept busy in many ways. At the end of the experiment, he recalled the halcyon days with pleasure. He believed he had learned the secret of a truly happy life. The only tenable way of life is one in harmony with nature; material possessions are superfluous.
- austere
- propagate
- hut
- ascetic
- felicitous
- idyllic
- indolent
- halcyon
- tenable
- superfluous
- austere = sederhana atau keras
- propagate = menyebarkan atau mengembangkan
- hut = pondok atau gubuk
- ascetic = hidup sederhana atau asketis
- felicitous = tepat atau beruntung
- idyllic = indah atau damai
- indolent = malas atau tidak produktif
- halcyon = damai atau tenang
- tenable = dapat dipertahankan atau masuk akal
- superfluous = berlebihan atau tidak diperlukan
Here are explanations and sample sentences for the words you provided:
Austere: This describes something that is severe, simple, or without any decoration or luxury. It suggests a lack of comfort or a sense of restraint.
- The monk lived an austere life, devoid of worldly possessions.
- The austere architecture of the building reflected the simplicity of its purpose.
- The austere meal consisted of only bread and water.
Propagate: This means to spread or reproduce something. It suggests a process of dissemination or growth.
- The virus propagated rapidly through the population.
- The company propagated its brand through advertising.
- The gardener propagated new plants from seeds.
Hut: This refers to a small, simple dwelling, often made of wood or other basic materials. It suggests a humble or makeshift shelter.
- The family lived in a small hut in the woods.
- The refugees sought shelter in a makeshift hut.
- The hikers spent the night in a mountain hut.
Ascetic: This describes someone who practices severe self-discipline and abstains from worldly pleasures. It suggests a life of simplicity and self-denial.
- The ascetic monk lived a life of prayer and meditation.
- The ascetic artist rejected the comforts of modern life.
- The ascetic lifestyle emphasizes spiritual growth over material possessions.
Felicitous: This describes something that is appropriate, well-chosen, or perfectly suited to a particular situation. It suggests a sense of harmony or a good fit.
- The speaker’s felicitous remarks were well-received by the audience.
- The timing of the announcement was felicitous, coinciding with a positive event.
- The artist’s felicitous use of color created a harmonious composition.
Idyllic: This describes something that is perfect, peaceful, and charming. It suggests a sense of tranquility or a peaceful haven.
- The idyllic countryside was a welcome escape from the city.
- The couple spent an idyllic honeymoon in a secluded island.
- The book describes an idyllic childhood in a small village.
Indolent: This describes someone who is lazy, inactive, or unwilling to exert themselves. It suggests a lack of motivation or a preference for relaxation.
- The indolent student spent his days sleeping and watching television.
- The indolent worker was always looking for ways to avoid work.
- The indolent summer heat made it difficult to be productive.
Halcyon: This describes a period of time that is peaceful, prosperous, and happy. It suggests a golden age or a time of tranquility.
- The halcyon days of childhood were filled with joy and wonder.
- The halcyon era of peace and prosperity came to an end with the outbreak of war.
- The halcyon days of the company’s history were marked by innovation and growth.
Tenable: This describes an argument or a position that is reasonable, defensible, or capable of being supported. It suggests a valid or logical point of view.
- The lawyer presented a tenable argument in court.
- The scientist’s theory was tenable, based on solid evidence.
- The politician’s stance on the issue was tenable, addressing the concerns of both sides.
Superfluous: This describes something that is unnecessary or excessive. It suggests a surplus or something that is not essential.
- The extra information in the report was superfluous.
- The lavish decorations were superfluous, adding nothing to the simplicity of the event.
- The extra ingredients in the recipe were superfluous, making it too rich.
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The Hermit’s Paradox
An austere hermit lived in a humble hut on a secluded mountainside. His life was simple, ascetic, and devoid of worldly pleasures. He spent his days meditating, studying ancient texts, and propagating his philosophy of self-denial.
Despite his indolent lifestyle, he was a man of profound wisdom. His teachings were felicitous and offered solace to those who sought spiritual enlightenment. He spoke of an idyllic existence, free from the burdens of material possessions and societal expectations.
However, some questioned the tenability of his philosophy. They argued that complete renunciation of worldly pleasures was unnecessary and perhaps even superfluous. They believed that a balanced approach, incorporating both spiritual and material pursuits, was a more realistic and fulfilling path.
The hermit listened patiently to their criticisms, but remained steadfast in his beliefs. He understood that true happiness was not found in external things, but in inner peace and contentment. And so, he continued his solitary existence, a beacon of hope for those who yearned for a simpler, more halcyon time.
