Topics for Further Study
Last Updated September 4, 2024.
- Learn about Thomas Merton, a Roman Catholic monk who was also a poet and political activist. What issues did he advocate for? How did he perceive the ideal balance between a contemplative life and one of activism?
- Read excerpts from Henry David Thoreau’s Walden; or, Life in the Woods, particularly passages where he meticulously describes his observations of nature. How does the level of detail in his accounts compare to Dillard’s? How would you contrast the conclusions that Thoreau and Dillard draw from their observations?
- At one point, Dillard considered submitting her manuscript to publishers under the name ‘‘A. Dillard’’ to make them think the author was male. Do you believe this would have deceived them? If you were unaware of the author's name in Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, what textual clues might suggest a female author? Reflect on the language, imagery, and tone.
- Using balls to represent the Earth and the Sun, illustrate the meanings of ‘‘winter solstice’’ and ‘‘summer solstice.’’ Describe how the Earth’s position relative to the Sun during each solstice influences the weather in your area.
- Spend an hour or more alone, replicating one of Dillard’s activities: stalk a muskrat or another animal to see how close you can get; sit quietly outside at sunrise or sunset and observe the changing light; or pet a puppy while focusing solely on that activity. Write a brief essay describing your experience.
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