Skip to content

Coyotes have the gift of seldom being seen; they keep to…

“Coyotes have the gift of seldom being seen; they keep to the edge of vision and beyond, loping in and out of cover on the plains and highlands. And at night, when the whole world belongs to them, they parley at the river with the dogs, their higher, sharper voices full of authority and rebuke…” quote by N. Scott Momaday
Download Open image
“Coyotes have the gift of seldom being seen; they keep to the edge of vision and beyond, loping in and out of cover on the plains and highlands. And at night, when the whole world belongs to them, they parley at the river with the dogs, their higher, sharper voices full of authority and rebuke. They are an old council of clowns, and they are listened to.”

N. Scott Momaday

About This Quote

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

The quote uses coyotes as a metaphor for hidden wisdom that speaks from the margins, urging listeners to heed unconventional voices.

In simple terms: Listen to quiet, unconventional wisdom.

Key Takeaway

Seek counsel from unexpected sources.

Themes

wisdom nature marginal voices

Mood

reflective respectful

Type

cultural spiritual

When to use this quote

  • leadership decisions
  • cultural rituals
  • personal introspection
  • environmental advocacy

Key Concepts

coyotes council authority rebuke

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize hidden guidance?
  • When have you trusted an unlikely source?
A Different Perspective

Marginal voices may be ignored or misunderstood.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by N. Scott Momaday

Explore all 53 N. Scott Momaday quotes

More Authority quotes

Browse all 4,003 Authority quotes