Thoreau’s Journal Drawings: A Conversation with Author Kathleen Kelly

Join author Kathleen Kelly for a discussion of her new book Thoreau’s Journal Drawings: The Power of the Visual for in-depth exploration of one of the most overlooked—and most fascinating—aspects of Henry David Thoreau’s work. Beginning in 1850, Thoreau started sketching everything from hedgehog quills and locust wings to goldenrod leaves, using drawing alongside writing as a way to sharpen his powers of observation and deepen his understanding of the natural world.

Drawing on her groundbreaking research, Kelly reveals how these seemingly modest sketches were far more than illustrations. They were an essential part of Thoreau’s creative and scientific practice, where words and images worked together to record, interpret, and make sense of the world around him. By placing Thoreau’s illustrated journal entries within the broader traditions of nineteenth-century scientific illustration, nature writing, and visual culture, she offers fresh insight into his methods and the remarkable ways he learned to see.

Through close readings of illustrated journal passages, this program uncovers a vital dimension of Thoreau’s work that has long been overlooked. Whether you’re a devoted Thoreau reader, an artist, a naturalist, or simply curious about the intersection of art and science, you’ll come away with a richer appreciation for how drawing helped shape one of America’s greatest observers of the natural world.

This event is presented in cooperation with Concord Art as part of the Concord Festival of Authors.