Walden Summary

In March, 1845, Thoreau decides to build a cabin by Walden Pond, near Concord, Massachusetts, thus beginning his so-called "personal experiment." His goal is to discover everything he can about human nature; he thinks he can do this best when he does not have to deal with normal worldly concerns, like material goods and human society. The book is largely structured around the seasonal changes that Thoreau observes during his two years at Walden Pond. Thoreau takes the time to explore numerous ponds in the area, including Flint's Pond and White Pond. He also checks out the local farms, like Baker Farm, where he briefly takes shelter with an Irish laborer and his family. Not much changes the second year he is there.