Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967), Euclid Avenue, May 31, 1916; watercolor and graphite on paper, 20 x 14 in.; Burchfield Penney Art Center, Gift of Tony Sisti, 1979
This is a day when I have feelings to which I cannot give expression – vague thoughts & yearnings that are fleeting and transparent as a burning dewdrop expiring in steam on a grass tip –
Wake before first light – yellow half moon hanging in the southern sky – as first light boils into the bursting sun a robin outside window goes frantic – company of blackbirds liquid calls – thru Park – a blue haze fills the air & turns the sunlight to a peculiar brassy color –
Noon – with H in Park – misty clouds smear the sky – squirrels rampant – bluebirds robins splashing in creek – elderbush unfolding
Afternoon sun comes out again – warm breeze in the yellow air – H & I at 4:30 under sun-hazed trees in Park – we dream of the country and its possibilities – Cottonwoods seem washed and glow almost yellow
Down Euclid – trees shadows blue on the dusty street –
Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, April 6, 1915