Charles E. Burchfield Journals, April 6, 1954

Tuesday –

Altho it was raining and “intermittent showers" were forecast all day, - I nevertheless determined to go out painting – (after much indecision however) – on my way at ten, in a driving rain.

Most of the recent snow all gone.

By the time I reached the big woods, rain had about ceased. I had already determined what I should paint, and set up my easel before lunch. After lunch, I set out to paint – as a precaution I took my rain-coat and umbrella along and it was well I did for there were heavy squalls intermittently all afternoon, and only rarely did it happen that no rain at all was falling – when just a little rain was falling I put the umbrella high, and on a standard; but then the gusty winds and torrential showers came, I put the umbrella low over the painting & set the portfolio against my legs, and huddled there until it was over – in this position, I could not see what I was doing, so close was I to the painting – so I put in the strokes I knew I wanted, without seeing them.

In spite of all this I managed to work, and enjoyed the thrill of being right in the midst of the storm – there were many fine and unusual effects – the swishing roar of the wind in the rain-dimmed tree tops; the sound of water rushing everywhere. Low in the ravines and earth creases soggy snow still lingered, and from it arose great whitish clouds of vapor –

The wildness of the day filled me with happiness. I was happy that I can still work with gusto under such trying conditions.

My theme was the clashing of spring and winter in the woods, sunlight and wind penetrating the deep gloom of winter.

By late afternoon I was exhausted, and after a sandwich and a cup of coffee, I headed for home.

B. – thought the sketch good, and to me it was much better than I had hoped for.

Tired, but content with the day’s doings.

Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, April 6, 1954