“The clamorous owl, that nightly hoots and wondersAt out quaint spirits.”
Example of Usage
One of the most famous quotes about owls comes from William Shakespeare's play A Midsummer Night's Dream. In this line, the owl is described as "clamorous" and known for its haunting hoots at night.
Analysis of Quote:
In this line from William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream," the character Bottom speaks about the owl as a symbol of darkness and mystery. The word "clamorous" suggests a loud and persistent noise, which adds to the eerie atmosphere being described. The owl's hooting is seen as a reflection of the strange and otherworldly events happening in the play. Overall, this quote underscores the supernatural elements and whimsical nature of the play.
Modern Relevance
Shakespeare's mention of the owl in this quote highlights a sense of mystery and intrigue surrounding the creatures of the night. In modern times, owls continue to be associated with wisdom and intelligence, often depicted as symbols of guidance and intuition. Additionally, the reference to "quaint spirits" may resonate with those who believe in supernatural elements or are interested in exploring the unknown. Overall, this quote serves as a reminder of the enduring fascination with the mysterious and otherworldly aspects of life.
Reflection Questions:
When reading this quote by William Shakespeare, one can't help but ponder the significance of the "clamorous owl" and the idea of "quaint spirits." Here are some reflection questions to consider when thinking about this quote:
- What emotions or thoughts does the image of a "clamorous owl" evoke for you?
- In what ways do you interpret the term "quaint spirits" in relation to the owl's nightly hoots?
- How does the presence of the owl in the quote contribute to the overall atmosphere or mood of the scene described by Shakespeare?
- Can you relate this quote to any personal experiences or moments where nature has played a significant role in evoking certain emotions or thoughts?
Similar quotes
“If this were a made-up story, it would begin at night, with a storm blowing and owls hooting and rattling noises under the bed.”
“We stand dead still and we listen to the night. The city drones. An owl hoots and a cat howls and a dog barks and a siren wails.We let the stars shine into us.”
“Owls visited them at night. Some thought the owls were witches. Some thought they were angels of death. Some thought they were holy and brought blessings. Some thought they were the restless spirits of the dead. The cowboys thought they were owls.”
“The owl flies, in the moonlight, over a field where the wounded cry out. Like the owl, I fly in the night over my own misfortune.”
“We were restless for ages...After a while I heard an owl hooting and calmed myself by thinking of it flying over the dark fields – and then I remembered it would be pouncing on mice. I love owls, but I wish God had made them vegetarian.”