The Hen-Hawk by John Burroughs
This work is a collection of essays that explore the natural world and the human experience through observations of birds, particularly hawks. The author reflects on the symbolism and significance of these birds in relation to human nature, morality, and spirituality.
By John Burroughs · First published 1886 · Genre: Nature Writing, Essays, Descriptive Prose · 557 words
First lines
August is the month of the high-sailing hawks. The hen-hawk is the most noticeable. He likes the haze and calm of these long, warm days. He is a bird of leisure, and seems always at his ease. How beautiful and majestic are his movements! So self-poised and easy, such an entire absence of haste, such a magnificent amplitude of circles and spirals, such a haughty, imperial grace, and, occasionally, such daring aerial evolutions! [1]
What this Textopian page supports
The Hen-Hawk is listed on Textopian as a short story by John Burroughs, dated 1886 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: John Burroughs
- Date: 1886 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Nature Writing, Essays, Descriptive Prose, Wildlife Observation, Philosophical
- Length: 557 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Hen-Hawk by John Burroughs
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Hen-Hawk?
- How does this short story 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 work focuses on the detailed observation and description of the hen-hawk, emphasizing its behavior and the natural environment.
- Essays — The text presents reflective and philosophical insights on nature, characteristic of essay writing.
- Descriptive Prose — The writing style is rich in imagery and detailed descriptions, creating vivid mental pictures of the hawk and its surroundings.
- Wildlife Observation — The content centers on the observation of wildlife, specifically the hen-hawk, and its interactions with the environment.
Tags
Nature Writing · American Literature · Essay Collection · Wildlife Observation · Ornithology · Bird Watching · Rural Life · Farmland · Agriculture · Seasonal Change · Weather Description · Outdoor Adventure