Here's why:
* Deep Connection to Nature: Thoreau's writings, like "Walden" and "A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers," are infused with a deep love and appreciation for the natural world. He sought solace, wisdom, and inspiration from the woods, rivers, and landscapes around him.
* Transcendentalist Themes: He embraced the Transcendentalist ideas of self-reliance, individualism, and the inherent divinity in nature. His writings often explore the relationship between the individual soul and the natural world.
* Emphasis on Observation: Thoreau was a keen observer of nature, documenting his observations in detail and using them to reflect on larger philosophical and spiritual themes.
* Nature as a Source of Inspiration: He saw nature as a source of inspiration for creativity, contemplation, and self-discovery. His writings encouraged readers to connect with the natural world and find meaning within its rhythms and cycles.
While Thoreau may not always be referred to as a "nature writer" in the strict sense, his works are deeply rooted in the Romantic celebration of nature and its impact on the human experience, making him a key figure in the development of this genre.