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Farley Mowat Quotes

Powerful Farley Mowat for Daily Growth

About Farley Mowat

Farley Mowat (1921-2014) was a Canadian naturalist, writer, and conservationist whose work vividly portrayed the natural world and human impact on it. Born as Charles Frederick Farley Mowat in Belleville, Ontario, on May 11, 1921, he spent his early years in a rural environment that would later serve as inspiration for much of his writing. Mowat's passion for nature was fostered by his grandfather, a veterinarian who instilled in him a deep respect and understanding of animals. This bond was further strengthened through his experiences in the Canadian wilderness while living with Ojibway families during his teenage years. These formative years influenced Mowat's lifelong commitment to environmentalism and Indigenous rights. In 1952, Mowat published his breakthrough work, "People of the Deer," a memoir about his time with the Ojibway people. This was followed by "The Dog Who Wouldn't Be," which chronicled his adventures with sled dogs in the Canadian Arctic. However, it was his novel "Never Cry Wolf" (1963) that brought him international acclaim, earning him recognition as a leading voice in wildlife conservation. Throughout his career, Mowat wrote over 40 books, including "The Boat for Dunayre," "A Whale for the Killing," and "Sea of Slaughter." His works often depicted the harsh realities of humanity's impact on nature, advocating for conservation and sustainable living. In 1982, he was awarded the Order of Canada for his contributions to literature and environmentalism. Farley Mowat passed away on May 6, 2014, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire a love for nature and a commitment to its preservation. His works remain influential in the fields of conservation, wildlife protection, and Indigenous rights.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The ice was as smooth and inviting as glass."

This quote by Farley Mowat suggests an image of a tranquil, serene landscape covered in solid, transparent ice. The use of "inviting" implies that the scene is not only beautiful but also seems to invite exploration or interaction, perhaps enticing the observer to venture out onto the glass-like surface of the ice. It's a poetic depiction of nature at its most pristine and alluring.

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."

This quote highlights the power of collective action, emphasizing that even a small number of passionate and dedicated individuals can bring about significant, transformative changes in the world. It suggests that major societal shifts often originate from grassroots movements or initiatives led by committed citizens, rather than large-scale institutional structures. The quote serves as an encouragement for those who believe in change, inspiring them to take action and participate in making a positive impact on society.

"We are all visitors to this planet. We are here for one hundred years at the very most. During that period we must try to do something good, some worthwhile achievement. And if we have not, in all our short time, improved upon a flower, helped a small bird or saved a tree, then our lives will be poor indeed."

This quote by Farley Mowat emphasizes the temporal nature of human existence on Earth, suggesting that each individual has a brief but significant role in shaping the world around them. The essence is to make positive contributions during one's lifetime by respecting and preserving the natural environment, focusing on acts such as helping animals or improving ecosystems. If we fail to do so, our lives lack meaning and purpose because we have not made a lasting, positive impact on the planet.

"The creatures of instinct are more wise than the creatures of reason."

This quote emphasizes that animals, guided by their instincts rather than conscious thought or reason, often demonstrate a deeper understanding of life and their environment. Instinct, being innate behavior, has been developed over thousands of years through natural selection, allowing animals to survive and thrive in their specific ecosystems. In contrast, humans, using reasoning, may sometimes struggle to adapt and understand the world around them due to our complex societies and rapidly changing environments. The wisdom of instinctual creatures lies in their ability to respond effectively to immediate needs without the need for learning or education, providing a valuable lesson for humans about simplicity, survival, and living in harmony with nature.

"To take the life of another living creature is to sacrilege; to forget it is the numbness of sin."

This quote emphasizes the sacredness of all living beings, suggesting that taking the life of any creature is a desecration or profaning act - akin to disregarding something holy or inviolable. The act of killing another life form, if not followed by remembrance and respect for its sanctity, can lead to spiritual insensitivity or sinfulness. It underscores the importance of compassion, empathy, and mindfulness towards all living beings.

We're under some gross misconception that we're a good species, going somewhere important, and that at the last minute we'll correct our errors and God will smile on us. It's delusion.

- Farley Mowat

Delusion, Some, Gross, Errors

I write better in Cape Breton... too many people around in Ontario. Down there I meet all sorts of non-human people, but they don't bother me, and I don't feel I have to apologize on behalf of my species quite so often.

- Farley Mowat

Feel, I Write, Behalf, Apologize

Without a function, we cease to be. So, I will write till I die.

- Farley Mowat

Die, Cease, Till, Function

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