In the metaphors we make of the creatures of the heavens and the deep, we often project our imagery, imbuing them with our own reflection. But the world is more than a coloring book of shapes for us to fill in. When we perceive metaphor in reality we enhance our understanding of ourselves, but when we install meanings instead of seeing reality, we miss all the true texture and inherent value, like a child doodling over a great painting.... We miss the expansive opportunity of knowing other creatures. When we see that, worlds open-and even the metaphors that find us become more interesting.

From Eye of the Albatross by Carl Safina