Skip to content

It is difficult to undo our own damage, and to recall to…

“It is difficult to undo our own damage, and to recall to our presence that which we have asked to leave. It is hard to desecrate a grove and change your mind. The very holy mountains are keeping mum. We doused the burning bush and cannot rekindle it; we are lighting matches in vain under every…” quote by Annie Dillard
Download Open image
“It is difficult to undo our own damage, and to recall to our presence that which we have asked to leave. It is hard to desecrate a grove and change your mind. The very holy mountains are keeping mum. We doused the burning bush and cannot rekindle it; we are lighting matches in vain under every green tree.”

Annie Dillard

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A poetic lament about irreversible environmental damage and the futility of attempting to restore what’s lost.

In simple terms: Destruction of nature cannot be undone.

Key Takeaway

Protect ecosystems now.

Themes

environment loss irrevocability

Mood

somber reflective

Type

environmental philosophical

When to use this quote

  • deforestation
  • oil spills
  • climate change mitigation

Key Concepts

ecology human impact spiritual reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions can prevent further harm?
  • Can damaged ecosystems truly recover?
A Different Perspective

Restoration efforts may be limited.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Annie Dillard

Explore all 509 Annie Dillard quotes

More Burning quotes

Browse all 1,668 Burning quotes