Quotation by

Henry David Thoreau

It appears to be a law that you cannot have a deep sympathy with both man and nature.

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Understanding this quote AI Analysis

Thoreau is saying that people usually find it difficult to fully understand and care for both human beings and the natural world at the same time. He suggests that showing strong feelings for one often means having less connection or concern for the other.

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When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.