July 8, 1838

in Thoreau’s Journal:

The loudest sound that burdens here the breeze

Is the wood’s whisper; ’t is, when we choose to list

Audible sound, and when we list not,

It is calm profound. Tongues were provided

But to vex the ear with superficial thoughts. 

When deeper thoughts upswell, the jarring discord 

Of harsh speech is hushed, and senses seem

As little as may be to share the ecstasy.