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Astonishment Quote by Charles Darwin

“Every one must be struck with astonishment, when he first beholds one of these vast rings of coral-rock, often many leagues in diameter, here and there surmounted by a low verdant island with dazzling white shores, bathed on the outside by the foaming breakers of the ocean, and on the inside…” quote by Charles Darwin
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“Every one must be struck with astonishment, when he first beholds one of these vast rings of coral-rock, often many leagues in diameter, here and there surmounted by a low verdant island with dazzling white shores, bathed on the outside by the foaming breakers of the ocean, and on the inside surrounding a calm expanse of water, which, from reflection, is of a bright but pale green color.”

Charles Darwin

About This Quote

Source Book: The Voyage of the Beagle, 1839

The description marvels at massive coral reefs and their islands, highlighting nature’s grandeur and diversity.

In simple terms: Awe at huge coral islands and clear waters.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate natural wonders.

Themes

nature wonder geology

Mood

awe inspirational

Type

descriptive educational

When to use this quote

  • tourism
  • marine research
  • conservation policy

Key Concepts

biodiversity ecosystem environmental change

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we protect these ecosystems?
  • What does their beauty teach us about Earth?
A Different Perspective

Coral reefs are fragile and threatened by climate change.

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