Table of Contents
A Rosemary By Any Other Name
The above snippet is from Floral Emblems Or A Guide To The Language Of Flowers, which I came across while perusing one of my favorite sites, HathiTrust. Published in 1821 and written by Henry Phillips, the book focuses on the meanings that have been ascribed to different flowers and herbs over the years, and features some delightful illustrations throughout. In the preface, Phillips tells the reader: “The author trusts that his work will not be condemned because it allows a communication of sentiment.” Heaven forbid! But speaking of sentiment…The Paradise Lost quote Phillips chose to accompany the entry for Bell Flower, symbol of gratitude, is actually uttered by Satan.
Rosemary is symbol of remembrance and fidelity, and one of my perennial favorites (see what I did there?). Narcissus—big surprise—is associated with “egotism and self-love.” Amaranth represents immortality? I had no idea.
And as we approach July 4, perhaps it is worth noting that Plum-Tree (prunus domestica) is associated with independence. “Several kinds of plums grow without the aid of cultivation,” Phillips notes, “and the tree has therefore been made the emblem of independence.”
Months ago I traveled to New York to be interviewed for the documentary “Women of WWII: More Untold Stories.” I always love getting to talk about the women of the Manhattan Project, but with everything else going on, I almost forgot this was coming out! Air times vary depending on your location. Learn more and find out how to watch here.
The Cat is Out of the Box & So is the Book…Finally
A lot is made of “unboxing” videos online. You can even hire a professional unboxing-type-person who, for anywhere from about $30 to more than $300, will open your box for you!
My boxes, with my new books, have been sitting in my foyer for literally weeks, completely untouched. It’s hard to explain why this happened, but I try my best to shed a little light on my psyche (and the books!) here:
🧳✈ On the Road… ✈ 🧳
The Obstinate Daughters tour kicks off at Malaprop’s in Asheville, NC, on June 22. Visit my calendar for more information on my extensive summer travels.
Proud Bruno
📚Until next time…📚
I can’t believe I’m less than a week away from seeing my book out in the world. AND that means I’m less than a week away from getting to hang out with readers and booksellers in the places I love most.
I hope you’ll stop by to see me, if I’m in your neck of the literary woods. If not, see you right back here again soon.
With Gratitude,
