Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967), Forest Fire in Moonlight, 1920; watercolor, gouache, and pencil on paper, 26 1/4 x 18 3/4 inches; Private Collection
April 18, 1916—
While working in Life this morning, I suddenly thought of all the dreams I have ever had of wildflowers and unseen woods; and a great longing came over me to be able to live in such a dreamworld meeting no other being; & I became so oblivious to my surroundings and self that I grew dizzy.
I saw the sunset on the lake tonight—
I saw the moon thru the trees—
There is the hasty first impression view of nature and also the contemplative reconstructive view. I scarcely get time for the latter.
Charles E. Burchfield