Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967), Before the Storm, June 8, 1916; watercolor and graphite on paper, 13 x 19 3/8 inches; The Parisi Collection
Charles Burchfield, Journals, July 28, 1914
Friday, Jul 27, 2018
Who can sound the depths of the wind? Whence comes this life-creating blast of icy air? Yesterday—so quiet and sultry—today so wild & cool. When the wind is blowing we must expand & swell else we be blown away. Trees grow tall with stiffened trunks let their limbs relax to be waved and tossed at the will of the wind.
There is freshness in the clattering of leaves; in the whitened flurry of overturned foliage; in the yellowed sunshine, rays of which are bent by the force of the loosened air; in the crumpling of corn-blades; in the sight of playsome children, hair & clothes fluttering.
After supper start out for a walk, simply to see the close of day, while surrounded by nature.
The wind is abating gradually but it has left the air in a crystalline state & all things sparkle.
Charles Burchfield, July 28, 1914