Final answer:
Henry David Thoreau's writing in Walden exemplifies his use of climactic sentence structure, particularly in his discussion on simplicity, culminating in the powerful repetition of 'simplicity, simplicity, simplicity!'. Another example of his climactic style is found in Civil Disobedience, which starts with a strong claim on government leading to an in-depth exploration of individual freedom. The buildup of his arguments in both pieces underscores the importance Thoreau places on living a simple and sovereign life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passage on simplicity in Walden showcases Henry David Thoreau's mastery in crafting sentences that build to a climactic finish. This essayistic technique mirrors the thematic essence of the work, where the accumulation of thoughts and observations serve to underscore the profound significance of living simply. Thoreau exhorts, "simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say, let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand" (66), effectively strengthening his argument through rhetorical repetition that crescendos to the point of austerity.
An additional instance of Thoreau's climactic style is observed in Civil Disobedience, where he begins with the authoritative claim that "government is best which governs not at all". This statement prefacing the narrative sets the tone for a progression of ideas that culminate in an advocacy for individual sovereignty over one's life, mirroring the holistic crescendo found in Walden. As Thoreau elucidates his perspective on minimal government interference, each sentence builds upon the last, leading the reader to a peak understanding of Thoreau's philosophy on self-governance and freedom.
Furthermore, in Thoreau's description of life at Walden Pond, he writes with a rhythm that elevates his narrative to a poetic climax, detailing his survival skills and his efforts to "front only the essential facts of life" (66). His use of language and thematic development work in tandem, creating an almost lyrical momentum in his prose that drives towards a significant conclusion about life's simplicity and our relationship to the natural world.