An Sir: Because they both herald the presence of profound possibilities.
On top of that, the notes for which they are noted are not noted for being musical notes but are rather flat.
Profound Possibilities of Ravens for The Uninitiated:
“Countless cultures point to the raven as a harbinger of powerful secrets. Moreover, the raven is a messenger too, so its business is in both keeping and communicating deep mysteries.”
As for the profound possibilities of a writing desk… simply look at all of knowledge and advancements made by society over the last few hundred years… many of the conceptions which become inventions, widely held philosophies, & cultural standards were conceived upon the surface of a writing desk.
This answer to the riddle was reckoned while reposed upon a writing desk. The writer, desk, and digital device, all clothed in revenesque wraps of various blacks.:smack:
Welcome to the Straight Dope Message Boards, Had Matter, we’re glad you found us. For future ref: when you start a thread, it’s helpful to other readers to provide a link to the column in question. Our Archives are deep and plentiful, so the link saves searching time and helps keep us on the same page – we hope it prevents people duplicating answers already in the column, for instance. Anyhow, not a problem, I’ve edited a link to the bottom of your post, and you’ll know for next time. And, as I say, welcome!