Chapter 12: Brute Neighbors

Chapter 12: Brute Neighbors

1. Hermit Versus Poet

   • In this short conversation, Thoreau is expressing the two conflicting sides of himself.
     • While Hermit symbolizes Thoreau’s intellect, Poet is a symbol of intuition.
   • Hermit appears to be an extremely anxious person, and he is constantly wondering how his present actions will affect his future life.
     • Poet only focuses on the present, and tries to enjoy life.
   • This conflicting battle of emotions shows that Thoreau must often use his intelligence over his intuition every time he makes a decision.

2. The Partridge Bird

   • Thoreau believes that these birds are precious because of how innocent and wise they prove to be.
     • Whenever Thoreau sees this type of bird and other types of animals, it always reminds him that nature’s greatest gift for him has been wisdom and intellect.

3. Red Ants Versus Black Ants

   • Thoreau witnesses a battle between groups of black ants against red ants.
     • It is almost humorous how similar animals are to humans, but we cannot comprehend it.
     • The ants refuse to give up, and are fighting to death in order to win their war.
   • Similar to how battles between humans affect the future, Thoreau realizes that this battle between the ants will affect their future.
     • What connects all living things is that we all share the same experiences, but in different forms.

4. Surprise of Animals

   • Throughout some of the fall, Thoreau is surprised by various animals in the woods, especially cats who have clearly strayed from home.
   • Other animals begin to come out in the fall as well, and Thoreau likes to observe these unique animals.
     • It shows that humans and animals all share the same environment and should be able to coexist.

5. Tracking Down the Loon

   • Thoreau is trying to observe the loon, but even his best efforts prove to be bad because of how smart the animal is.
   • The loon manages to avoid Thoreau and appears to be mocking his attempts.
     • Animals are smart like humans because they are connected to nature.