"...we part with tender relations stretching far behind us, that never can be exactly renewed..."
Why does all the idyllic reverie happen to occur on the Eastern Coast. I never seem to have days to spend in modest reflection like this.
I am so envious of you right now.
mojo:
Good to see you come back by. New England's literature typically is characteristic of self-reflection, and I've wondered about that myself. I think it might have to do with the short summmers and the very long, harsh winters. As Robert Frost puts it:
"The heart is still aching to seek
But the feet question, 'Whither?'"
Thanks for reading and commenting,
Scot
I have a lot of days like this. Many times I'll drive into town without anything particular to do. That's when I find either that perfect album, that perfect novel, or some other purchase that I never knew existed. I think that's the way life is, sugar; if you don't go looking for anyting in particular, you often find it.
As for the winter, I welcome it with open arms.
Also, thanks for stopping by california is a recipe for a black hole and thanks for the link, darling.
breasier,
You're welcome. Thanks for coming by. It is true that by not looking for anything in particular we become open to discovery. Appreciate your comment. . .
Scot
It's something I've been thinking a lot about recently: why do so many of America's great writers come from New England? I doubt it's the weather - otherwise Canada would be teeming with literati. Recently I learned that New England's population has been decreasing for decades as the young head off for easier lives down south or west; perhaps this has something to do with it. The ones who are left exhibit that typically dour obstinacy that New Englanders are famed for and that, coicidentally, is required to complete anything as long as a book that's worth reading... 
Clive,
Thanks for the humorous context. I’m not sure why, but when the sets so early, the evening does seem to crawl along, which lends itself to the perfect pace required to enjoy a good book, or a few good blogs.
Scot
Scot,
That was wonderful. Anyday with nowhere to go is a vacation to me. The way you brought in the lightness of language--no wonder you were leaving puns on my blog--hou light you are feeling. Coffee and chocolate and a very small boy saying, "Look, it's snowing." These are great moments in life. You've captured them better than Rockwell. Lovely.
Liz,
After a day of reading John Gould, one cannot help feeling lighthearted. He's the perfect read for when it's damp and grey. Thank you for the compliment.
Scot
Loved the descriptions--especially of the weather because weather is so telling
As to self reflection, I think it depends on the author and the genre: all the "John's" (Irving, Cheever, Updike) yes; Richard Russo is from upstate New York which is near there, too
But a lot of southern writers really hit me with their insight---Tennesse Williams to start, yes he's a playwright but..While Truman Capote is argubly the most self centered writer; he can nail a character. Flannery O'Connor--did a hell of lot for such a short career
Just really love American 20th century writing--sorry for getting all tangential. this is a side of me I don't get to express often and I'm a writer
Pia,
As far as literature is concerned, the twentieth century was pretty incredible, wasn't it. Appreciate your take on this,
Scot
Scot, I think what I like best about your posts is that you don't just share a reflection, you take your reader vividly to the specific place and time
where you had it. You let us feel the cold, and then the warmth of that coffee shop, and then taste the coffee--and oh yes, that wonderful deep chocolate. You don't just tell us that you looked out the window and saw a Currier and Ives scene; you invite us to take a look ourselves.
Scott,
very sweet post, I liked it alot.
Patry,
Thank you for letting me know what you specifically like about my writing. Your compliment is appreciated.
Scot
rdl,
Thanks for that. I'm pleased that you liked it.
Scot
"As picturesque as a winter scene might be, it is, nevertheless, cold, and cold is not friendly."
I often try to explain just that to people who don't live in a cold place and snow seems romantic to them. I mean, the occasional snow fall in Vancouver is beautiful and romantic, but not out/up here.
Very nice post, thanks 
Melly,
You're welcome. Always good when you come by. I appreciate the thoughfulness of your comments. Funny how it was when I was a kid. The cold never bothered me much, but it sure does now. I'm just glad I live in an apartment that has a good heating system, and no drafts. I have a feeling this winter's going to be a long one.
Scot
Scot- It's been awhile since I stopped by. I'm just getting back to a sense of balanced blogging, after almost drowning in it.
I always come away refreshed and pleased after reading your posts. As you say here, reading something light/pleasant is the best cure for Winter.
I'll be back to read futher and catch up. see ya,
David
Dave,
Didn't catch you when you came by. Thanks for your comment. It is good to have you as a reader.
Scot
Commenting by HaloScan
