The Catbird by John Burroughs (1867)
This work is a collection of essays that explore the natural world and the human experience through observations of birds, particularly the catbird. The author reflects on the bird's behavior, habits, and symbolism, drawing parallels with human nature and society.
By John Burroughs · First published 1867 · Genre: Nature Writing, Essays, Literary Non-Fiction · 1,170 words
First lines
It requires an effort for me to speak of the singing catbird as he; all the ways and tones of the bird seem so distinctly feminine. But it is, of course, only the male that sings. At times I hardly know whether I am more pleased or annoyed with him. Perhaps he is a little too common, and his part in the general chorus a little too conspicuous. If you are listening for the note of another bird, he is sure to be prompted to the most loud and protracted singing, drowning all other sounds; if you sit quietly down to observe a favorite or study a new-comer, his curiosity knows no bounds, and you are scanned and ridiculed from every point of observation. Yet I would not miss him; I would only subordinate him a little, make him less conspicuous.
What this Textopian page supports
The Catbird is listed on Textopian as an essay by John Burroughs, dated 1867 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: John Burroughs
- Date: 1867 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Nature Writing, Essays, Literary Non-Fiction, Wildlife Observation, Philosophical
- Length: 1,170 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Catbird?
- How does this essay by John Burroughs fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Nature Writing first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Nature Writing — The text focuses on the observation and description of the catbird and its environment, emphasizing the beauty and intricacies of nature.
- Essays — The work presents a reflective and analytical exploration of the catbird's behavior and its interactions with other creatures, characteristic of essay writing.
- Literary Non-Fiction — The narrative blends factual observations with personal insights, creating a non-fictional account that reads with literary flair.
- Wildlife Observation — The detailed account of the catbird and its surroundings serves as a study of wildlife behavior and ecology.
Tags
Nature Writing · American Literature · Essay Collection · Wildlife Observation · Ornithology · Birdwatching · Conservation · Environmentalism · Philosophy of Nature · Observational Style · Descriptive Writing · Poetic Prose