* Distraction from true living: Thoreau believed that news and mail were full of distractions and trivialities that pulled people away from experiencing life directly. He wanted to focus on the simple, natural world and his own self-discovery. He felt that immersing oneself in the news and mail was a form of escapism, a way to avoid the hard work of living authentically.
* Lack of importance: He saw the news as being mostly about "the affairs of men," which he deemed less important than the natural world and his own personal growth. He felt that the daily news was often filled with sensationalism and drama, which he considered to be a waste of time.
* Distortion of reality: Thoreau also criticized the news for often presenting a distorted picture of reality. He argued that the news often focused on the negative and sensational, rather than the positive and meaningful.
* The value of solitude: Thoreau cherished solitude and saw it as a necessary condition for self-reflection and creativity. He believed that being constantly bombarded by news and mail would prevent him from achieving this solitude.
Quotes from Walden that reflect Thoreau's views:
* "I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived."
* "I find it wholesome to be alone the greater part of the time. To be in company, even with the best, is soon wearisome. I love to have my own company."
* "Most of the luxuries, and many of the so-called comforts of life, are not only not indispensable, but positive hindrances to the elevation of mankind."
In conclusion, Thoreau viewed the news and mail as unnecessary distractions from a life lived in harmony with nature and oneself. He believed that a simpler life, free from external influences, was essential for true happiness and self-discovery.