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Animal Quote by Winifred Holtby

“Nature is not silent, and never was a name more derisively inappropriate than when we speak of these non-human creatures who hoot and crow and bray as the dumb animals.” quote by Winifred Holtby
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“Nature is not silent, and never was a name more derisively inappropriate than when we speak of these non-human creatures who hoot and crow and bray as the dumb animals.”

Winifred Holtby

About This Quote

Source Novel: South Riding, 1936

Human animals are often mischaracterized, revealing human arrogance in naming.

In simple terms: Animals are not silent; we mislabel them.

Key Takeaway

Respect all creatures.

Themes

environment animal rights human arrogance

Mood

reflective advocacy

Type

environmental philosophical

When to use this quote

  • wildlife conservation
  • education
  • media representation

Key Concepts

ethics anthropomorphism language

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does naming affect perception?
  • What can you do to honor non‑human voices?
A Different Perspective

Changing language is slow.

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