Anthony's Literary Lens

Category: animal

  • Foxy Fox

    Foxy Fox

    “Red fur coat gleams bright
    Fox wears virtue and deceit
    Nature’s dual sprite“

    Anthony
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    The fox is a fascinating animal that has been featured in many stories and cultures. The character of a fox is often portrayed as clever, cunning, and adaptable. Foxes can use their intelligence and charm to get out of tricky situations or to achieve their goals. However, they can also be seen as tricksters, deceivers, or troublemakers. Foxes may use their skills for good or evil, depending on the context and the perspective.

    In Native American culture, the fox is a symbol of wisdom, creativity, and nobility. Some tribes consider them as a clan animal or a spirit guide. Foxes can teach people how to survive, how to use their talents, and how to respect nature.

    In Japanese culture, the fox is called kitsune, which means spirit fox. It is a messenger of the gods and a symbol of divine intervention. The fox can shape-shift into human form and has magical powers. They can be benevolent or malevolent, depending on the situation and the type of fox.

    In Chinese culture, the fox is a symbol of fertility and longevity. They can also transform into a human and has supernatural abilities. They can be a friend or a foe, depending on the intention and it’s morality. The fox can also represent the balance between yin and yang, the feminine and the masculine forces.

    In European culture, the fox is a symbol of cunning, slyness, and trickery. It is often depicted as a clever animal that can outsmart or outwit its enemies or rivals. They can also be a symbol of mischief, curiosity, or playfulness, being a hero or a villain, depending on the story and the moral lesson.

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  • Insights into the Water Rabbit Year

    Insights into the Water Rabbit Year

    “In the Year of the Rabbit, gentleness conquers where force fails, and fortune favours the heart at peace.”

    Anthony
    Managed to get this photo when I was working in somebody’s garden.
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    The Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese zodiac is characterised by the gentle and graceful nature of the rabbit, combined with the influence of the element water in 2023. People born in this year are believed to possess qualities such as kindness, tact, and artistic sensibilities.

    The Rabbit is often seen as a symbol of good fortune and is associated with longevity in Chinese culture. Those born in the Year of the Rabbit are thought to lead a life of tranquility and charm. They are believed to be diplomatic individuals, capable of navigating social situations with ease due to their innate tact and grace.

    The element of Water further enhances these characteristics, adding a touch of adaptability and intuition to individuals born in 2023. Water is associated with fluidity and emotional depth, and it is believed to bring a sense of balance and harmony to the Rabbit’s inherent elegance.

    In Chinese folklore, the Rabbit is also associated with the Moon, contributing to its connection with creativity and artistic pursuits. People born in the Year of the Water Rabbit may find themselves drawn to creative endeavors, whether in the arts, literature, or other expressive outlets.

    Overall, the Year of the Water Rabbit is seen as a time when individuals may find success through a harmonious blend of sensitivity, diplomacy, and creative expression. It’s a year that encourages adaptability and the pursuit of artistic passions, all under the auspicious influence of the gentle and fortunate Rabbit.

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  • Daffodils: More Than Just a Pretty Flower

    Daffodils: More Than Just a Pretty Flower

    Daffodils are one of the most popular spring flowers, with their cheerful yellow petals and sweet fragrance. But did you know that daffodils also have a long history of medicinal uses? Ley’s explore some of the fascinating facts and benefits of these beautiful blooms.

    Collected a few trinkets to show off my daffodils. Tap to see my red bubble gallery

    Daffodils belong to the genus Narcissus, which includes about 50 species and thousands of cultivars. They are native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and have been cultivated for centuries. The name Narcissus comes from the Greek myth of a handsome youth who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water, fell in, and drowned. The gods turned him into a flower that bears his name. I guess this is where the word narcissist comes from.

    I found this daffodil bulb down the back of my potting table and thought it was very interesting. I photographed it on a sheet of white paper.

    Daffodils have been used regularly in folk and traditional medicine, for in addition to the well-documented sickness-inducing properties, extracts can produce numbness, hallucinations, convulsions and cardiac effects, as well as being used for centuries in cancer treatments. The Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the father of medicine, recommended daffodil oil for uterine tumours. Roman Pliny the Elder suggested topical use of the oil. The bulbs have also been used to treat tumours in North Africa, in Central America, in Arabian medicine, and in Chinese medicine during the Middle Ages. Traditional Japanese medicine uses the root to treat wounds.

    The reason why daffodils have such potent effects is because they contain various alkaloids, which are nitrogen-containing organic compounds that have a range of biological activities. Some of the alkaloids found in daffodils are lycorine, galantamine, haemanthamine, and narciclasine. These alkaloids have different effects on the body, such as inducing vomiting, inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, disrupting microtubules, and inducing apoptosis.

    One of the most promising alkaloids in daffodils is galantamine, which has been shown to improve cognitive function and slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Galantamine works by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in memory and learning. By increasing the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, galantamine can enhance cognitive performance and reduce the symptoms of dementia.

    Another alkaloid that has potential anti-cancer properties is narciclasine, which has been found to inhibit the growth and invasion of various types of cancer cells, such as glioblastoma, breast, lung, colon, and prostate cancer. Narciclasine works by disrupting the microtubules, which are structures that help the cells divide and move. By interfering with the microtubules, narciclasine can induce cell death and prevent tumour formation.

    However, before you rush to your garden and start eating daffodils, be warned that they are not safe for consumption. All parts of the plant are poisonous, and can cause severe skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. In larger doses, they can cause more serious side effects, such as hallucinations, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias, and even death. There have been numerous cases of people who have mistaken the bulbs for onions or garlic, or the stems and leaves for chives, and have become seriously ill or died after eating them. Therefore, it is best to consult a healthcare provider before using any products that contain daffodil extracts.

    Daffodils are more than just pretty flowers. They are also a source of powerful compounds that have a range of medicinal uses. However, they are also very toxic and should be handled with care.

    I hope you enjoyed this blog and learned something new. Thank you for reading! 😊

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  • Sasha and the Enchanted Rose Garden

    Sasha and the Enchanted Rose Garden

    In a forest where everything was black and white, there lived a kind-hearted skunk named Sasha. Unlike her monochromatic friends, Sasha longed to experience the beauty of colours. While her skunk companions were content with their grey surroundings, Sasha had a deep desire to find a world filled with vibrant hues.

    Sasha’s friends often teased her, saying, “Why do you want to see colours, Sasha? Everything is just fine in black and white!” But Sasha remained determined. She believed in the magic of colours, and she had a secret that her friends couldn’t understand.

    One sunny morning, Sasha decided to embark on a journey deeper into the forest. She had heard whispers about a wondrous place called the Enchanted Rose Garden, rumoured to be hidden far beyond the tallest trees. With hope in her heart and a sparkle in her eyes, Sasha began her quest to find the colours she longed for.

    As Sasha ventured further into the forest, she encountered various animals and creatures who cautioned her about the perils of the unknown. “Beware, Sasha,” advised a wise old owl, “The path ahead is full of challenges, but your love for colours will guide you.”

    Sasha continued her journey with determination, and as she progressed, she noticed the forest becoming increasingly enchanted. Trees transformed into towering rosebushes, and the air became filled with the sweet scent of roses. At last, she arrived at the legendary Rose Garden.

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    The garden was an extraordinary sight. Gigantic, colourful roses bloomed in every shade imaginable. Sasha felt like she had stepped into a magical painting. She began to dance among the roses, and as she twirled, something remarkable happened. Colours burst forth, and her world was transformed from black and white to a dazzling rainbow and her tail was transformed into the most beautiful shade of purple!

    Sasha realised that her determination to change had brought her the very thing she had always dreamed of. The garden was a place of pure enchantment and joy. Sasha’s friends, who had once teased her, were astounded by her newfound colourful appearance and the magical garden she had found.

    From that day on, Sasha was known as the Colourful Queen, and her friends couldn’t get enough of her newfound vibrant beauty. They all joined her in the Enchanted Rose Garden, where they too experienced the wonder of a world filled with colour.

    And so, Sasha the Skunk lived happily ever after in her Enchanted Rose Garden, proving that sometimes it’s the things that make us different that lead us to the most extraordinary discoveries. The end.

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  • Magpies. The Bird of Many Meanings

    Magpies. The Bird of Many Meanings

    Magpies are fascinating birds that have inspired many myths and legends around the world. Here are some examples of stories about magpies from different cultures:

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    In China, Korea, and Japan, magpies are considered to be auspicious birds that bring good luck and happiness. They are associated with the Qixi Festival, also known as the Chinese Valentine’s Day, which celebrates the annual meeting of two lovers, Zhinü and Niulang, who are separated by the Milky Way. According to the legend, a flock of magpies forms a bridge across the sky to allow the lovers to reunite once a year.

    In Britain, magpies are often seen as omens of bad luck or death, especially if seen alone. There is a well-known rhyme that predicts one’s fortune based on the number of magpies seen: “One for sorrow, two for joy, three for a girl, four for a boy, five for silver, six for gold, seven for a secret never to be told.” Some people believe that greeting a lone magpie or saluting it can ward off the bad luck.

    In Celtic lore, the magpie was a bird associated with fairy revels; with the spread of Christianity, however, this changed to a connection with witches and devils. In Scandinavia, magpies were said to be sorcerers flying to unholy gatherings, and yet the nesting magpie was once considered a sign of luck in those countries. In France, magpies were believed to be able to foretell the weather and the future.

    In Native American cultures, magpies had various meanings and roles. Some tribes of Native Americans believed that wearing a magpie feather was a sign of fearlessness, while others considered the magpie to be a sacred messenger of the creator, or even a guardian with shamanic abilities. In some legends, the magpie helped the coyote, the trickster, to create the world or to steal fire from the gods.

    These are just some of the many stories and beliefs that people have about magpies. Magpies are truly remarkable birds that have captured the imagination of humans for centuries.

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  • The Devon Rex: A Quirky Charmer

    The Devon Rex: A Quirky Charmer

    The Devon Rex is a captivating breed of cat that defies convention with its whimsical charm. With its short, curly coat, large ears, and impish grin, this feline is a delightful wonder in the world of cats.

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    Their oversized ears are not just for show; they’re like radar dishes, tuned into every sound and rustle. Nothing escapes their keen auditory perception. They’re not shy about expressing their opinions either, often engaging in vocal conversations with their human companions. It’s as if they believe they have some critical insight to share with the world, and you’re the lucky recipient.

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    Devon Rex cats are not your typical lap cats; they prefer to be where the action is. With their animated faces and endearing quirks, they bring joy and laughter to your life. Embrace a Devon Rex, and you’ll embark on a delightful, unpredictable adventure with one of the most fascinating feline companions around.

    What makes Devons truly unique is their personality. They are inquisitive, mischievous, and engaging. They love human interaction, often perching on your shoulder or joining in your activities.

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  • To Bear Witness

    To Bear Witness

    I am a polar bear, and this is my home.
    Or at least, it used to be.
    Now, all I have left is this fragile shard of ice,
    Drifting in the endless sea of darkness.

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    Where did you go wrong, humans?
    Why did you destroy the world that we shared?
    Why did you burn the forests, melt the glaciers, and pollute the air?
    Why did you ignore the warnings, the signs, and the cries?

    Do you not care about me, or any other living thing?
    Do you not see the beauty and the balance of nature?
    Do you not feel the pain and the sorrow of your actions?
    Do you not fear the consequences and the impact of your choices?

    Please, humans, I beg you.
    Help me, and help yourselves.
    Stop this madness, and reverse this damage.
    Restore this planet, and heal this wound.

    I am a polar bear, and this is my home.
    But I cannot survive here alone.
    I need you, and you need me.
    We are all connected, and we are all one.

    Anthony Thomas
    Polar bear distribution
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  • Tales of Tiny Whirlwinds

    Tales of Tiny Whirlwinds

    In the dance of butterflies, magic is spun, and destinies unfurl

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    In a land where whimsy reigned supreme, there lived a marvellous, enigmatic butterfly named Flora. Flora was no ordinary butterfly; she possessed the magical power of the butterfly effect. With each graceful flutter of her iridescent wings, she could set in motion a chain of events that would ripple through the world in the most unexpected and fantastical ways.

    What a beautiful butterfly

    One sunny morning, Flora took flight, her wings shimmering like a rainbow in the clear blue sky. She landed on a dandelion and, with a dainty sip of nectar, set her plan into motion. Little did she know, her actions were about to create such a whirlwind of happenings.

    As Flora took off again, the dandelion’s seeds developed and were whisked away by the breeze. One of them landed in a nearby garden, where it sprouted into an extraordinary flower. This flower, known as the “Whimsy Blossom,” had petals that changed colour based on the emotions of those who touched it.

    A passing poet, inspired by the ever-changing colours of the Whimsy Blossom, composed verses that tugged at the heartstrings of all who heard them. His words carried on the wind and spread joy and understanding to the world.

    And so, thanks to the seemingly insignificant sip of nectar by Flora the butterfly, the world was forever changed. The butterfly effect, in all its magical glory, continued to dance through the lives of people, reminding them that even the smallest actions could create grand and fantastical adventures.

    In this land of wonder and imagination, it was a reminder to always pay attention to the flutters of butterflies, for you never knew what whimsy they might bring to your world.

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  • Through the Shutter’s Eye

    Through the Shutter’s Eye

    Photography, at its core, is a dance with serendipity. It’s an art that thrives on capturing moments of beauty, wonder, and the unexpected. The magic of photography lies in being in the right place at the right time, a concept that couldn’t be more evident than in your two striking images.

    Sun kisses the sea
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    In the first photograph, the sun seems to have carefully settled upon the water’s surface, casting a golden path that glistens like liquid fire. It’s a visual marvel that reminds us of the exquisite alignment of celestial bodies and the fleeting nature of light. To capture this moment required being present at that precise instant when the sun kissed the sea, illuminating both with a warm, ethereal glow. It’s as if nature conspired with the photographer, inviting them into its grand performance for a brief, exquisite encore.

    Lucky White horse
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    The second image, featuring a rainbow emerging behind a white horse, is equally mesmerising. Rainbows have long held a mythical allure, symbolising hope, promise, and the ephemeral nature of beauty. In this instance, the horse, symbolising grace and freedom, stands at the confluence of earth and sky, while the rainbow, a harmonious blending of light, forms a breathtaking arch. To capture such a scene requires more than just photographic skill; it calls for patience and an almost spiritual connection with the world around us.

    In both instances, the photographer found themselves at the intersection of perfect timing and sheer luck. They harnessed the magic of the natural world and transformed it into two timeless images, reminding us that the beauty of our world is ever-present, but often hidden, waiting for us to be in the right place at the right time to reveal itself.

    But being in the right place at the right time is not solely a matter of happenstance. It requires patience and persistence, a willingness to wait for that perfect alignment of elements. It involves understanding that each moment carries its own unique narrative, waiting to be captured. The most captivating photographs often emerge when the photographer embraces the unpredictability of life.

    These photographs are a testament to the enchantment of the universe and the photographer’s gift for seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary. In a world that often moves too fast to notice the subtle wonders around us, they invite us to pause, to appreciate the beauty of happenstance, and to understand that the lens through which we view the world can often be our most powerful tool for capturing the fleeting moments that make life truly extraordinary.

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  • The Enchanted Nest

    The Enchanted Nest

    Nature’s wisdom reveals itself where skylarks find sanctuary amidst bilberries

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    The discovery of a skylark nest nestled amid a patch of bilberries is a fascinating glimpse into the natural world, offering insight into the unique flora and fauna of the environment. The skylark, known for its enchanting and melodious song, often chooses inconspicuous nesting sites, blending into its surroundings. The bilberry, also known as the whortleberry or blaeberry, is a small, blue-black fruit that thrives in upland areas, such as the mountains of Wales.

    The skylark (Alauda arvensis) is a symbol of the open countryside, renowned for its joyful and complex songs that fill the air during their territorial displays. The species has a preference for nesting on the ground, hidden amidst vegetation like bilberries. The choice of bilberries as a nesting location provides both camouflage and a source of food for the skylark. Bilberries are rich in antioxidants and nutrients, making them a valuable dietary resource for local wildlife.

    Bilberries, while resembling blueberries, have distinct characteristics. They typically grow in acidic and nutrient-poor soils, thriving in the uplands of places like Wales. The shrubs are low-growing, adorned with small, deep blue fruits that are enjoyed by various birds, including skylarks, and other wildlife. Bilberries are not only a food source but are also valued for their potential health benefits, as they are believed to have antioxidant properties.

    The synergy between the skylark and the bilberry in this natural setting exemplifies the intricate relationships between flora and fauna. The discovery of the skylark’s nest surrounded by bilberries underscores the importance of preserving such habitats and understanding the interconnectedness of the species that call them home. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the wonders to be found in the wild landscapes of Wales.

    A skylark soars, a joyous speck in the boundless blue, singing freedom’s song as it reaches new heights

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