To a man, ornithologists are tall, slender, and bearded so that they can stand motionless for hours, imitating kindly trees, as they watch for birds.
Interpretation
The quote humorously describes ornithologists as having tree-like qualities while observing birds.
Gore Vidal's quote offers a whimsical portrayal of ornithologists, characterizing them as tall, slender, and bearded individuals who blend in with nature, much like trees. This metaphor highlights both the patience and the observational skills required in the field of ornithology, as well as the deep connection between humans and the natural world.
In practice
This quote can be used in a nature class to emphasize the importance of patience in wildlife observation.
We must declare ourselves, become known; allow the world to discover this subterranean life of ours which connects kings and farm boys, artists and clerks. Let them see that the important thing is not the object of love, but the emotion itself.
American writers want to be not good but great; and so are neither.
Writing fiction has become a priestly business in countries that have lost their faith.
The important thing is not the object of love, but the emotion itself.
For the average American, freedom of speech is simply the freedom to repeat what everyone else is saying and no more.
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To dwellers in a wood, almost every species of tree has its voice as well as its feature.
You can drive out nature with a pitch fork_x000D_ But it always comes roaring back again.
17. Butterfly A butterfly fluttered its wings in a wind thick with the smell of seaweed. His dry lips felt the touch of the butterfly for the briefest instant, yet the wisp of wing dust still shone on his lips years later.
The apple blossom exists to create fruit; when that_x000D_ comes, the petal falls.
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