A raptor’s mystique inspires “What an Owl Knows”
They know rather a lot, reveals the book’s author, Jennifer Ackerman
With a face as round as the first letter of its name and a stance as upright as the last—along with human-like features and a haunting cry—the owl has a mystical, mythical perch in the imagination. Difficult to spot because of their mostly nocturnal habits, and sporting cryptic plumage that helps them melt into landscapes, owls, writes Jennifer Ackerman, are the most enigmatic of birds.
This article appeared in the Culture section of the print edition under the headline “You elegant fowl!”
Culture June 10th 2023
- Two alarming books on the power of America’s Supreme Court
- A museum in Albania aims to commemorate a painful past
- A raptor’s mystique inspires “What an Owl Knows”
- Leïla Slimani’s new novel ranges from France to Morocco
- “Amongst the Ruins” explores the collapse of civilisations
- Gestures are a subtle and vital form of communication
From the June 10th 2023 edition
Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contents
Explore the editionMore from Culture
Can Magnus Carlsen convince people to watch chess?
The world’s best player hopes that glamming up the ancient game can make stars of its players
Are internet firms the problem, or are you the problem?
A veteran critic of technology offers his take on a familiar target
The Michelin Guide is no longer the only tastemaker in town
How is it adapting to changing eating habits?
Why “Emilia Pérez” is loved by Hollywood and hated by everyone else
And the Oscar for Worst Picture goes to…
Tofu: never judge a food by its political reputation
Think outside the white plastic box. Here is a carnivore’s guide to tofu
Sex, drugs or chastity?
Pope Francis has written the first memoir by a sitting pope. God help us