Charles Burchfield, Journals , March 2, 1912

It seems that today is a day for sounds. A few moments ago I heard someone beating a carpet. Perhaps they are a little premature in their vernal house-cleaning, but that does not rob the sound of its expressiveness. Lightly speaking, it is expressive of labor. This I know to be a fact, for I have beaten carpets and sworn too at the same time. In fact, carpet beating and profanity are more than cousins, they are mother and son; which is the son, is not hard to see. The process of converting carpet-beating to profanity is simple. The first thing is the dust which the wind blows into your eyes nose and throat, causing extreme irritation. Some people will use profane language at this point. Others are of a more inventive frame of mind and will move around to the other side to escape the wind. The wind however, takes the same notion at the same time and - well some people will swear at this point. Others will wait until they begin to sweat. There are a few who will remain virtuous until they get tired, with the beating only half done. This latter class are few and far between as the strokes of the people in the first class. I am writing this at this early time of year for if I wait until I can write my sentiments from actual and fresh experience my pen may not be able to stand the test of the storm.

The foregoing paragraph, was viewing the situation lightly. There is a sentimental way of looking at it – or rather hearing. Not silly sentimental, but seriously so. What thoughts of spring, the beating of a carpet really does conjure in the mind of the hearer! This is but naturally the case. The beating of a carpet, and the hammering of a carpenter are elements of spring to me just as much as is the call of the cardinal, or meadowlark, though perhaps not so inspiring and sweet.

Charles Burchfield, Journals, March 2, 1912