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All birds during the pairing season become more or less…

“All birds during the pairing season become more or less sentimental, and murmur soft nothings in a tone very unlike the grinding-organ repetition and loudness of their habitual song. The crow is very comical as a lover; and to hear him trying to soften his croak to the proper Saint-Preux standard…” quote by James Russell Lowell
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“All birds during the pairing season become more or less sentimental, and murmur soft nothings in a tone very unlike the grinding-organ repetition and loudness of their habitual song. The crow is very comical as a lover; and to hear him trying to soften his croak to the proper Saint-Preux standard has something the effect of a Mississippi boatman quoting Tennyson.”

James Russell Lowell

About This Quote

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

Birds alter songs in love, showing humor and cultural reference.

In simple terms: Love changes behavior, even in birds.

Key Takeaway

Observe love’s playful side.

Themes

nature love humor

Mood

lighthearted observational

Type

literary creative

When to use this quote

  • birdwatching
  • poetry reading
  • relationship counseling

Key Concepts

literature ethology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this reveal about human love?
  • How can humor strengthen bonds?
A Different Perspective

May anthropomorphize animals.

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