Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, November 4, 1961

     …The large “November” now seems solved—at least in my mind; all it needs is the working out—

Charles E. Burchfield, November 4, 1961

On November 4, 1961, CEB had gotten out his unfinished 1923 watercolor November Evening, observing that “ideas at once began to flow” and deciding to complete it. On November 7, he put it to soak

(J. Benjamin Townsend, Charles Burchfield’s Journals: The Poetry of Place)

     The 1923 seems practically ruined—perhaps just as well, the idea has taken hold of me, and I feel I should start a new one based on the design of this one. I feel the need once more of expressing the vast loneliness of the middle west as it was in the period immediately following the pioneer era at the onset of winter. 

     Filled with this mood, at bed-time I played the Borodin 2^nd Symphony, which so exemplifies this time of year. I turned up the volume, and it seemed as grim and powerful as when I heard it many years ago—

     Probably it will prove to be a fortunate circumstance that the 1923 w.c. was spoiled. Already a new version floods my mind and I am sure I can make a much more grim expression.

Charles E. Burchfield, November 7, 1961

     Remounted the 1923 w.c. in spite of the fact that it seems hopeless.

Charles E. Burchfield, November 8, 1961

see also:

https://www.burchfieldpenney.org/collection/object:1994-001-022-late-afternoon-twilight/

https://www.burchfieldpenney.org/collection/object:a2006-008-536-001-untitled-sketch-for-late-afternoon-twilight/

http://grooveshark.com/#!/album/Symphony+No+2/4390886