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Monarchs Quote by Annie Dillard

“At night on land migrating monarchs slumber on certain trees, hung in festoons with wings folded together, thick on the trees and shaggy as bearskin. [p. 244]” quote by Annie Dillard
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““At night on land migrating monarchs slumber on certain trees, hung in festoons with wings folded together, thick on the trees and shaggy as bearskin. [p. 244]””

Annie Dillard

About This Quote

Source Book: Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, Annie Dillard, 1974

Monarch butterflies gather on trees at night, creating a dense, bear‑like carpet of wings.

In simple terms: Butterflies rest together on trees at night.

Key Takeaway

Observe nature’s quiet gatherings.

Themes

nature beauty observation

Mood

contemplative aesthetic

Type

descriptive poetic

When to use this quote

  • birdwatching
  • gardening
  • night hikes
  • photography

Key Concepts

ecology collective behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this image change your view of nighttime nature?
  • What emotions does the “bearskin” metaphor evoke?
A Different Perspective

The description is poetic, not a scientific observation.

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