Literary notes about teal (AI summary)
In literature, the term "teal" predominantly evokes vivid natural scenes, often listing the bird among other waterfowl to create an atmosphere of wild abundance, as in descriptions of water bodies teeming with duck, wagtail, and teal [1], [2], [3]. At the same time, it takes on a more nuanced role when employed as a proper noun or even within legal contexts, blurring the lines between the natural and the human-made; characters such as Captain Teal or references like Teal v. Felton illustrate this dual usage [4], [5]. Together, these varied applications underscore the term’s versatility in enriching narratives with layers of ecological detail and cultural specificity.
- Duck, geese, widgeon, and teal thronged the spreading waters, and clamoured incessantly.
— from Tales of South Africa by H. A. (Henry Anderson) Bryden - Duck, teal, widgeon, snipe, and plover; free.
— from The Sunny Side of IrelandHow to see it by the Great Southern and Western Railway by John O'Mahony - Wild duck, snipe, teal and grebe abounded there, and it was agreed that a day should be devoted to an expedition against these birds.
— from The Mysterious Island by Jules Verne - “The right to mail matter was considered in Teal v. Felton [12 How.
— from The postal power of Congress: A study in constitutional expansion by Lindsay Rogers - “None whatsoever, sir, to you,” stated Captain Teal.
— from Ladies and Gentlemen by Irvin S. (Irvin Shrewsbury) Cobb
