in life without principle thoreau writes I would have had him deal with hisprivated experience as the poet does what does this mean
When Thoreau states "I would have had him deal with his private experience as the poet does" in his essay "Life Without Principle," he is suggesting that individuals should prioritize their personal and authentic experiences, similar to how a poet approaches their craft.
To understand the meaning behind this statement, you can analyze Thoreau's overall argument in "Life Without Principle." The essay criticizes people who dedicate their lives solely to pursuing material wealth and financial success, compromising their own values and passions in the process. Thoreau believes that individuals should lead purposeful lives focused on personal growth and the pursuit of truth.
In the context of this passage, Thoreau is suggesting that a person should engage with their own private experiences, emotions, and self-reflection, just as a poet does. Poets often draw upon their inner thoughts, feelings, and observations to create art that reflects the depths of human experience. Thoreau is essentially encouraging individuals to live authentically, by tapping into their own inner truths and subjective experiences rather than conforming to societal expectations.