# The Hen; The Lichen explained — How to Tell the Birds from the Flowers and Other Woodcuts

> Chapter companion for How to Tell the Birds from the Flowers and Other Woodcuts by Robert Williams Wood.

## What happens

This chapter contrasts the simple, two-dimensional existence of lichens with the greedy and careless lifestyle of the hen, highlighting their different habitats and diets.

## Themes in this chapter

### Nature and Classification

The chapter compares the biological and behavioral differences between lichens and hens.

## Character check-ins

### the Birds

The hen is contrasted with the lichen, emphasizing her greedy and careless feeding habits.

## Key lines

> Lichens, regardless of conventions, Exist in only two dimensions, A life restricted to a plane, On rocks and stones a greenish stain

Lichens defy typical classification and live only on flat surfaces, appearing as green stains on rocks and stones.

_Describes the simple, two-dimensional nature of lichens._

> Contrast them with the greedy Hen, And her most careless regimen, She shuns the barren stones and rocks, And thrives upon the garbage box.

In contrast, the hen is greedy and careless, avoiding barren rocks and instead feeding on garbage.

_Highlights the hen's different and less refined lifestyle compared to lichens._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/how_to_tell_the_birds_from_the_flowers_and_other_se/chapters/the-hen-the-lichen
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/how_to_tell_the_birds_from_the_flowers_and_other_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/how_to_tell_the_birds_from_the_flowers_and_other_se/chapters