In "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek," Annie Dillard explores the hidden aspects of nature that often go unnoticed. She reflects on the elusive creatures that inhabit the natural world, emphasizing their desire to remain undetected by human observers. This notion reveals a sense of mystery in the environment, suggesting that much of what is alive and vital exists beyond our sight and understanding.

Dillard's quote, "The creatures I seek do not want to be seen," encapsulates the theme of her work. It highlights the tension between humans' curiosity and the inherent privacy of wildlife. Through her observations, she encourages readers to appreciate the unseen and to recognize that there is a rich world existing parallel to our own, filled with life that thrives outside our immediate perception.