In "Speaks the Nightbird" by Robert R. McCammon, a stark contrast is drawn between the perspectives of nature and humanity. While frogs and mud hens revel in a pleasant day, enjoying their vibrant surroundings, humans are instead burdened by gloomy weather. The low gray clouds and chilly rain seem to weigh heavily on them, evoking a sense of sadness and confinement. This illustrates how different life forms perceive the world around them.

The joy of the frogs and mud hens stands in stark opposition to the despair felt by humans, highlighting the deeper emotional struggles faced by the human experience. The imagery of chains enshrouding the spirit emphasizes feelings of being trapped and overwhelmed by the environment. McCammon effectively uses this juxtaposition to explore themes of isolation and the varying relationships that different beings have with their world.