Time and Change

"Time and Change" by John Burroughs is a collection of early 20th-century essays that considers how the Earth's geology, life's ongoing evolution, and humanity's connection to the natural world influence one another. Burroughs wants his audience to appreciate how the Earth and life on it were molded throughout history, so he uses his writing to give the reader a sense of awe about the process of change from simple, single-celled organisms to more complex forms of life. While discussing the Earth's transformation, Burroughs bridges the gap between understanding science and appreciating the nature around us by hoping to spark their curiosity and teach them about geology and evolution; moreover, he stresses how both time and patience are needed to fully appreciate the transformations that occur during the evolutionary journey and the connection between Earth’s geological history and the life that exists today.