The term dates to C.S. Lewis's description of owls in 'The Chronicles of Narnia.' Other collective nouns for owls include 'wisdom', 'stare', and 'bazaar'. Owls are often associated with wisdom in folklore.
Why this works
At first glance, this riddle seems like a simple trivia question, but it invites us into the rich tapestry of language and culture that surrounds one of nature's most enigmatic creatures. The term "parliament" for a group of owls is not just a catchy phrase; it's a delightful nod to the symbolism of wisdom that owls embody in various cultures. The connection stems from C.S. Lewis's enchanting portrayal in 'The Chronicles of Narnia,' where he cleverly links the owl's solemn demeanor to the gravitas of a governing body, suggesting that owls hold the wisdom of the ages, much like wise lawmakers.
Delving deeper, this clever terminology plays on the multifaceted nature of collective nouns in English, revealing how language can evoke imagery and emotion. Other whimsical terms like "wisdom," "stare," and "bazaar" showcase the richness of English, where the peculiarities of collective nouns often reflect the characteristics attributed to the animals themselves. The notion of wisdom, in particular, is steeped in history, dating back to ancient mythology where owls were associated with Athena, the goddess of wisdom, making this riddle not just a play on words but a reflection of how deeply intertwined our language is with our cultural narratives.
For a fun twist, consider that collective nouns for animals can often be delightfully absurd, with a "murder" of crows or a "gaggle" of geese adding a playful flair to our conversations. These quirky terms remind us that language, much like the creatures it describes, is alive and full of surprises, waiting to be explored and appreciated in all its whimsical glory.