As a reader of “Economy,” I find Throreau’s lists to be a reflection of his meticulous, thrifty, and proud character. On page 858, in the very beginning of the chapter (which is also the beginning of the Walden itself), Thoreau addresses his readers, saying that some people have asked him questions about his rather unconventional lifestyle:
“I should not obtrude my affairs so much on the notice of my readers if very particular inquiries have been made by my townsmen concerning my mode of life, which some would call impertinent, but, considering the circumstances, very natural and pertinent. Some have asked what I got to eat; if I did not feel lonesome; if I was not afraid; and the like. Others have been curious to learn what portion of my income I devoted to charitable purposes; and some, who have large families, how many poor children I maintained. I will therefore ask those of my readers who feel no particular interest in me to pardon me if I undertake to answer some of these questions in this book.”
Throughout the chapter, Thoreau is working to answer the questions of his followers and critics that he mentions in the above quote. In order to do so effectively, he maintains a confident and sometimes sarcastic tone. Another tactic he uses to answer these questions and to prove that he has enough to live off of is his inclusion of lists that document his income and expenses. At first, I found it odd that he felt it necessary to include such specific accounts, but then I began to see the lists as evidence to support his claim that his method of living is very efficient. He even addresses his readers directly in regards to some of his lists, as if he can teach them a thing or two: “I address myself now to those of my readers who have a living to get. And to meet this I have for farm produce sold…” (890). He is basically using such meticulous and concrete evidence to brag about how efficient he is, so his lists bolster his ego while making the reader more apt to “buy into” his means of living.
I agree that the lists contribute to his tone and help to buffer his "argument." It's almost like he's prepared for people to doubt him and then he can be like, HA! But look at this! After all, the chapter is titled "Economy," so he's got to prove that he's economical somehow.
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