The Porcupine by John Burroughs
This work is a collection of essays that explore the natural world and the human experience through observations of animals, particularly the porcupine. The author reflects on the porcupine's unique characteristics and behaviors, using them as a metaphor for human nature and society.
By John Burroughs · First published 1868 · Genre: Nature Writing, Essay, Memoir · 2,088 words
First lines
Among our wild animals there are three that are slow-moving, dull-witted, and almost fearless, -- the skunk, the opossum, and the porcupine. The two latter seem to be increasing in most parts of the country. The opossum is becoming quite common in the valley of the Hudson, and the porcupine is frequently met with in parts of the country where it was rarely or never seen forty years ago.
What this Textopian page supports
The Porcupine is listed on Textopian as an essay by John Burroughs, dated 1868 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: 1868 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Nature Writing, Essay, Memoir, Animal Behavior, Philosophical
- Length: 2,088 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Porcupine by John Burroughs
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Porcupine?
- 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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- The Wit Of A Duck by John Burroughs
- The Flight Of The Eagle by John Burroughs
- The Mountains Of California by John Muir
- Squirrels by John Burroughs
- In The Catskills by John Burroughs
Genres
- Nature Writing — The work focuses on the behavior, characteristics, and habitat of the porcupine, emphasizing observations of wildlife.
- Essay — The text presents a reflective and personal exploration of the porcupine, blending narrative with philosophical insights.
- Memoir — The author recounts personal experiences and encounters with porcupines, providing a subjective perspective on nature.
- Animal Behavior — The work delves into the instincts and actions of the porcupine, illustrating its defensive mechanisms and interactions with humans.
Tags
Nature Writing · Autobiography · Memoir · Wildlife · Observation · Philosophy · Humor · Satire · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Nonfiction · Essay Collection