Vanishing Life

Abstract

When people think of the issue of decreasing biodiversity, they generally consider pets, domestic animals, majestic beasts, and useful plants. Although many beasts and plants are threatened (pets and domestic animals are not threatened), the problem runs far deeper.

Roots and leaves themselves alone are these, Scents brought to men and women from the wild woods and pond side, Breast-sorrel and pinks of love, fingers that wind around tighter than vines, Gushes from the throats of birds hid in the foliage Of trees as the sun is risen.

Walt Whitman, from “Roots and Leaves Themselves Alone”