How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
All the theories botanists have devised to explain the functions of various leaf shapes tumble under an avalanche of inconsistencies. They simply don't know; can't imagine. (8.23)
Here's one to ponder: Can you know without imagination? Can you imagine without knowledge?
Quote #8
The great hurrah about wild animals is that they exist at all, and the greater hurrah is the actual moment of seeing them. Because they have a nice dignity, and prefer to have nothing to do with me, not even as the simple objects of my vision. They show me by their very wariness what a prize it is simply to open my eyes and behold. (11.33)
What is it about someone wanting nothing to do with us that makes us want to see them more? As it goes with exes, so it goes with muskrats.
Quote #9
I was holding my breath. Is this where we live, I thought, in this place at this moment, with the air so light and wild? (12.31)
This is Annie's reaction to seeing a goldfinch scattering down from a thistle. Watching the way the down floats gives her an insight into the nature of the air. It's all about interconnectedness, people—sometimes you have to look at one thing to see another.