John Burroughs Quotes
- Naturalist and nature essayist
- USA
- 1837
John Burroughs was an American naturalist, conservationist, and essayist who wrote extensively about the beauty of the natural world. He was a prolific author, publishing more than two dozen books and hundreds of essays and articles. He was a mentor to the environmental movement, advocating for the…Read More
John Burroughs was an American naturalist, conservationist, and essayist who wrote extensively about the beauty of the natural world. He was a prolific author, publishing more than two dozen books and hundreds of essays and articles. He was a mentor to the environmental movement, advocating for the preservation of nature and the protection of wildlife habitats.Read Less
John Burroughs was an American naturalist, conservationist, and essayist who wrote extensively about the beauty of the natural world. He was a prolific author, publishing more than two dozen books and hundreds of essays and articles. He was a mentor to the environmental movement, advocating for the preservation of nature and the protection of wildlife habitats.
48 Best John Burroughs Quotes
John Burroughs Career Highlights
- Published over 30 books: Burroughs was a prolific writer and published over 30 books, including “Wake-Robin,” “Winter Sunshine,” and “Birds and Poets.” His writings were widely popular and helped to shape the American conservation movement.
- Close friendship with Walt Whitman: Burroughs had a close friendship with the renowned poet Walt Whitman, who greatly influenced his writing style. They often went on nature walks together and exchanged letters discussing their love for nature and literature.
- Worked as a federal bank examiner: In 1863, Burroughs took a job as a federal bank examiner, which allowed him to travel extensively and observe nature in different regions of the country. This experience greatly influenced his writing and helped him to develop a deeper understanding of the natural world.
- Co-founded the Audubon Society: In 1886, Burroughs co-founded the Audubon Society, an organization dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats. He also served as the society’s first vice president.
- Received honorary degrees: Burroughs received honorary degrees from several prestigious universities, including Harvard, Yale, and Columbia, in recognition of his contributions to literature and conservation.
Key Contributions by John Burroughs
- Popularized nature writing: Burroughs’ writings were instrumental in popularizing nature writing in America. He wrote in a simple and accessible style, making his works appealing to a wide audience.
- Advocated for conservation: Burroughs was a strong advocate for conservation and believed in the importance of preserving nature for future generations. His writings helped to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspired others to take action.
- Bridged the gap between science and literature: Burroughs’ unique background in both science and literature allowed him to bridge the gap between the two fields. He used his scientific knowledge to inform his writing, making his works both informative and poetic.
- Influenced other writers: Burroughs’ writings had a significant influence on other writers, including John Muir and Theodore Roosevelt. His works also inspired the creation of national parks and the conservation movement in America.
What Sets John Burroughs Apart
- Unique writing style: Burroughs’ writing style was unique and often described as a blend of science and poetry. He had a keen eye for detail and was able to capture the beauty of nature in his writings.
- Multidisciplinary background: Burroughs’ background in both science and literature set him apart from other writers of his time. This allowed him to approach nature writing from a different perspective and make valuable contributions to both fields.
- Strong connection to nature: Burroughs’ deep connection to nature was evident in his writings. He spent a significant amount of time observing and studying the natural world, which gave his works a sense of authenticity and depth.
- Long-lasting impact: Burroughs’ writings continue to inspire and influence readers today. His works are still widely read and have played a significant role in shaping the modern environmental movement.
Takeaways
- The power of observation: Burroughs’ writings demonstrate the importance of taking the time to observe and appreciate the natural world. His keen observations and attention to detail allowed him to capture the essence of nature in his writings.
- The importance of conservation: Burroughs’ advocacy for conservation is still relevant today. His writings remind us of the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.
- The intersection of science and literature: Burroughs’ multidisciplinary background serves as a reminder of the value of combining different fields of study. His works show how science and literature can complement each other to create powerful and impactful works.
- The enduring impact of great writing: Burroughs’ writings have stood the test of time and continue to inspire readers today. They serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of great writing and the power of words to shape our understanding of the world.