Outings at Odd Times

by Charles C. (Charles Conrad) Abbott

"Outings at Odd Times" by Charles C. Abbott is a collection of essays focusing on nature and outdoor exploration, written in the late 19th century. The work reflects Abbott's deep appreciation for the natural world, conveyed through his personal experiences and observations of wildlife and landscapes throughout the different seasons. The essays may appeal to readers interested in nature writing, philosophy, and the intricate relationships between humans and the environment. At the start of "Outings at Odd Times," the author introduces his admiration for nature and books about it, pondering the value of personal experience versus secondhand descriptions. He illustrates this idea through vivid imagery of a winter sunrise and its effects on the natural surroundings, including the activities of birds, mice, and other wildlife. Abbott urges readers to immerse themselves in nature rather than remain confined to books, set against his reflections on the joys of outdoor life and the importance of firsthand knowledge in a world filled with distractions. Through this opening, he sets the stage for a series of essays that promise to blend poetic observation with a practical understanding of the natural world.