Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967), In Memoriam, 1936; watercolor on paper, 23 ¼ x 35 1/12 inches; Image courtesy of the Burchfield Penney Art Center Archives
Last night a dream – I was helping Frances get on a bus which was to take her to Cleveland. I knew she was dead, but that by some miracle this chance to see her once again was afforded me, and that when she went away on the bus, that I would never see her again. I almost forgot to put her suit-case on with her. Finally the bus drove off. Filled with sorrow, I decided I would go home & seek comfort in talking about it to Mother. As I entered the door, I realized that she too was gone – No one was there but Jim. The sense of desolation that came over me was crushing.
Charles E. Burchfield, September 20, 1934