Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967)

15.               April 30, 1934 – (Monday)   

     East to swampy woods this side of Bowen Rd to work on “Shed in Swamp – or Hermitage” – A fine mild day with just enough coolness to give the air an invigorating elasticity – A.M. work on little pool

     The spring quietness was emphasized by the calls of birds, and at times the sound of a farmers [sic] axe in some woods nearby – this latter had a fine relation to the season. Once the soft lavender shadow of a hawk glided moved silently across the leafy floor of the woods; there was a feeling of deep mystery about it.

     About noon move to another portion of woods where I wished to work on the roots of a large tree – the sunlight was not far enough around so I ate my lunch. The woods here was thickly contained many scattered groups of white hepaticas, which wide open to the sun, looked chalky against the dead leave. At work most of the afternoon. Suddenly one(s) realizes it is late afternoon – reflecting our mood the, the sunlight & earth have a tired tawdry look – the magic & excitement of morning & noon are gone –