Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967)

creek – A sudden joy overwhelms me – a completeness of life wraps us in.
I wandered over barren hills on a warm January night – I cried out to my Creator in the agony of my base worthlessness – a mysterious presence comforted me from out of the air – the dark woods and valleys tho barren, seemed suddenly satisfyingly beautiful—

 Feb. 14 1930-

Cold windy February night – a cold glittering moon – The air is so cold that it enhances the night – Deep mystery—
A Tall dark pine tree stands by – I raise my eyes to the sky, fling wide my arms and pray to God to forgive me my sins, my lust, my hideous thoughts, my cheapness I go in the house but my thoughts drive me forth again—
To the creek towards the dam—
Oh the vastness of the deep sky, – eternity – again I raise my arms & implore God – I fall on my knees – it is not enough I fall on my face – press my forehead to the snow – at last the tears come – the wind roars past – I grow cold and I rejoice in being cold – I come away in peace—