The Elephant and the Tragopan

The main speech is given by

The main speech is given by the elephant, who speaks for the animals of Bingle. The elephant says that his clan has served and therefore studied man.

Man is described as both gentle

Man is described as both gentle and cruel, sensible and mad, loving and brutal. This shows that his nature is not simple and is full of opposites.

Man uses animal parts for clothing

Man uses animal parts for clothing and food. He also hunts and controls animals for his own needs and pleasure.

Man sometimes worships animals

Man sometimes worships animals, sings about them, and creates stories about them, but does not truly care for them.

The elephant says that man sees

The elephant says that man sees the planet as his fief, as if everything on earth belongs to him. He acts as if all resources are meant for his mouth