"The gross heathenism of civilization has…" — John Muir

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Meaning

Muir is criticizing modern civilization for harming the natural world. He is also saying that this harm weakens poetry and other spiritual values. The quote suggests he sees civilization as forceful, destructive, and spiritually empty.

When It Was Said

1871

Who It Was Said To

Not documented yet.

Historical Context

letter to J.B. McChesney (19 September 1871)

Source

letter to J.B. McChesney (19 September 1871)

Original Language & Translation

Originally said in English.

Did They Really Say It?

Listed with a cited source on Wikiquote.

Did You Know?

Cited with a source on Wikiquote: letter to J.B. McChesney (19 September 1871).

About John Muir

Scottish-born American naturalist and writer

John Muir was a Scottish-born American naturalist and writer, active in the 19th and early 20th centuries. He is remembered as an early and influential voice for preserving wilderness in the United States. Muir also worked as an environmental philosopher, botanist, zoologist, and glaciologist. He is associated with the names “John of the Mountains” and “Father of the National Parks,” titles that reflect his lasting role in shaping wilderness preservation and the language around it.