'Of Wolves and Men' by Barry Lopez is a captivating exploration of man's complex relationship with wolves. The book delves into various aspects of this interaction, from historical conflicts with ranchers and farmers to the role of wolves in mythologies. It sheds light on the near-extinction of wolves in Western America and the subsequent conservation efforts that have helped in their survival. Through insightful storytelling, the author brings to life the lives and habits of wolves, providing a mix of scientific facts, cultural perspectives, and personal anecdotes that offer a deep understanding of these majestic animals.
Genres:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include descriptions of hunting practices and the relationship of wolves with humans, which may include distressing themes related to violence against animals.
From The Publisher:
Originally published in 1978, this classic exploration of humanity's complex relationship with and understanding of wolves returns with a new afterword by the author.
Humankind's relationship with the wolf is the sum of a spectrum of responses ranging from fear to admiration and affection. Lopez's classic, careful study has won praise from a wide range of reviewers and improved the way books on wild animals are written. Of Wolves and Men explores the uneasy interaction between wolves and civilization over the centuries, and the wolf's prominence in our thoughts about wild creatures. Drawing upon an impressive array of literature, history, science, and mythology as well as extensive personal experience with captive and free-ranging wolves, Lopez argues for the wolf's preservation and immerses the reader in its sensory world, creating a compelling portrait of the wolf both as a real animal and as imagined by different kinds of men. A scientist might perceive the wolf as defined by research data, while an Eskimo hunter sees a family provider much like himself. For many Native Americans the wolf is also a spiritual symbol, a respected animal that can strengthen the individual and the community. With irresistible charm and elegance, Of Wolves and Men celebrates careful scientific fieldwork, dispels folklore that has enabled the Western mind to demonize wolves, explains myths, and honors indigenous traditions, allowing us to understand how this remarkable animal has become so prominent for so long in the human heart.
Reader Stats (1):
Want To Read (1) |
1 comment(s)
DNF
I was expecting more of a story but it was too dry for me and read like a textbook (rather than a book to read for pleasure).
What can you read after
Of Wolves and Men?
About the Author:
Barry Lopez's (1945-2020) books include Light Action in the Caribbean (stories), About This Life (essays and memoir), the novella-length fable Crow and Weasel, and Arctic Dreams (nonfiction), for which he received the National Book Award. He traveled extensively in remote regions of the world, and his work has been widely translated and anthologized. He was a recipient of fellowships from the Guggenheim, Lannan, and National Science foundations; the Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters; the John Burroughs and John Hay medals; and other honors.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
