“Time is nothing but the river I go fishing in” (Thoreau, 38). This represents the time spent in a flow; an infinite flow that continues and flows into the vast ocean that seems to have no end. This reference to time speaks of life passing on forever. The memories we create and reflect on live on forever. In the same paragraph it also says “I drink it; but as I drink I see the sandy bottom and notice how shallow it is” (Thoreau, 38). This shallowness of waterways creates the thought that time is short. It is this brevity of life that reinforces Thoreau's idea of ​​living life and giving it meaning. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay “The intellect is a cleaver; it discerns and penetrates into the secret of things” (Thoreau 38). A cleaver is a tool used to cut and slice objects, this ability to create an opening is the comparison Thoreau uses towards the intellect. With knowledge you will be able to see and understand things that those with education may not understand. For example, in the past, without the knowledge of science, people used religion and other means to explain mysteries of the world, such as rain, earthquakes, stars, etc. But with knowledge we are able to see through these things and understand the truth in life in life; to learn new things and put yourself in new situations that will allow you to be increasingly wiser in life to improve them, who will build the railways... Have you ever thought about what those sleepers are under the railway?” (Thoreau, 34) The “sleepers” mentioned by Thoreau in this quote represent the workers who work on the railroads. They are not fully awake to see what life offers and appreciate it enough. They work on the railroad to improve transportation and make it faster and efficient and he wonders why people want life to be in such a hurry.