How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
I've lived there. I remember what the city has to offer: human companionship, major-league baseball, and a clatter of quickening stimulus like a rush from strong drugs that leaves you drained. (6.16)
The "human companionship" part is debatable. It's easy to become anonymous and isolated in the city, and just because you're surrounded by people doesn't mean they're your companions.
Quote #5
The general rule in nature is that things are soft within and rigid without. We vertebrates are living dangerously, and we vertebrates are positively piteous, like so many peeled trees. (6.40)
Dillard realizes that what trees and insects have in common is their protective outer shell. Humans could use some bark or chitin to protect us from the elements (and each other).
Quote #6
It looks for the moment as though I might have to reject the creek life unless I want to be utterly brutalized. Is human culture with its values my only real home after all? […]
Either this world, my mother, is a monster, or I myself am a freak. (10.56-57)
When you see things more deeply than other people, it's easy to feel like you're not even part of the human species. Dillard realizes the total improbability of life, which makes her feel like the murderous world is out to get us all.