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Douglas, Norman, 1868-1952

"South Wind"

You might collect them for me, will you? Not now. One day
when you are in the mood. Somewhat terrestrial and palpitating, is it
not, after the cloistered twilight of a University?"
"I came here from Florence," observed Denis.
"And even after Florence! Do you know why? Because mankind dominates in
Tuscany. The land is encrusted with ephemeral human conceits. That is
not altogether good for a youngster; it disarranges his mind and puts
him out of harmony with what is permanent. Just listen a moment. Here,
if you are wise, you will seek an antidote. Taken in over-doze, all
these churches and pictures and books and other products of our species
are toxins for a boy like you. They falsify your cosmic values. Try to
be more of an animal. Try to extract pleasure from more obvious
sources. Lie fallow for a while. Forget all these things. Go out into
the midday glare. Sit among rocks and by the sea. Have a look at the
sun and stars for a change; they are just as impressive as Donatello.
Find yourself! You know the Cave of Mercury? Climb down, one night of
full moon, all alone, and rest at its entrance.


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