Is there anything controversial here?

Historic monuments are being pulled down all over the United States to reverse the glorification of cultural errors. In The Guide, I suggest that the most important historical monument at Walden Pond –the thirteen massive posts of cut granite used to mark the footprint of his house — be pulled down as well, and be replaced by something that Thoreau would appreciate, rather than despise.

Since Thoreau’s time Walden has developed serious environmental issues that are not widely known.  The Guide tells all.  At the lakefront, there is overdevelopment, trail erosion, and nutrient pollution, with “peeing in the water” being the most challenging summertime environmental issue. Ambient noises includes corporate jets commuting to nearby Hanscom Field.  Rush hour traffic backs up from the stoplight on Route #2. The park parking lots are often closed by mid-morning.  Climate change is disrupting the flora, fauna, lake ice, and habitats.

But in spite of it all, the lake remains as a beautiful woodland retreat. In some ways is even nicer than during Thoreau’s day. The persistence of this “deep and green well” can be taken as a symbol of hope and stability in our rapidly changing, and increasingly overpopulated world.