What did Walden mean when he said your life is frittered away by detail?

When Thoreau said that "your life is frittered away by detail," he meant that people often become consumed by trivial tasks and distractions, which detract from their ability to engage in meaningful pursuits. He believed that excessive focus on mundane details prevents individuals from experiencing the deeper, more significant aspects of life. Thoreau advocated for simplicity and intentionality, urging people to prioritize what truly matters and to simplify their lives to achieve greater clarity and fulfillment.