“The clamorous owl, that nightly hoots and wondersAt out quaint spirits.”
Explore This Quote Further
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
“When icicles hang by the wall, And Dick the shepherd blows his nail,And Tom bears logs into the hall, And milk comes frozen home in pail, When blood is nipp'd, and ways be foul,Then nightly sings the staring owl, To-whit! To-who!—a merry note, While greasy Joan doth keel the pot. When all aloud the wind doe blow,And coughing drowns the parson's saw, And birds sit brooding in the snow, And Marian's nose looks red and raw, When roasted crabs hiss in the bowl, Then nightly sings the staring owl,To-whit! To-who!—a merry note, While greasy Joan doth keel the pot.”
“Where the bee sucks, there suck IIn the cow-slip's bell i lieThere I couch when owls do cry”
“My father's spirit in arms! all is not well;I doubt some foul play: would the night were come!Till then sit still, my soul: foul deeds will rise,Though all the earth o'erwhelm them, to men's eyes.”
“Come, gentle night; come, loving, black-browed night;Give me my Romeo; and, when I shall die,Take him and cut him out in little stars,And he will make the face of heaven so fineThat all the world will be in love with night...”
“Night's candles have burned out, and jocund day stands tiptoe on the misty mountaintops." Hope tinged with melancholy - like life.”
“Fie, fie upon her! There's language in her eye, her cheek, her lip, Nay, her foot speaks; her wanton spirits look out at every joint and motive of her body.”