Strolling on, it seems to me that the strangeness and wonder of existence are emphasized here, in the desert, by the comparative sparsity of the flora and fauna: life not crowded upon life as in other places but scattered abroad in spareness and simplicity, with a generous gift of space for each herb and bush and tree, each stem of grass, so that the living organism stands out bold and brave and vivid against the lifeless sand and barren rock. The extreme clarity of the desert light is equaled by the extreme individuation of desert life-forms. […] Love flowers best in openness and freedom.
– Edward Abbey, Desert Solitaire
Wow, did you take all those photos? They’re stunning. I know you said you used an SLR, and I’m betting you don’t ever go back. 🙂
I love desert blooms and Edward Abbey. Thanks for sharing.
Yes, they’re my photos, and THANK YOU! I snagged my husband’s SLR and handed off my CoolPix. I made no promises about giving it back. 🙂
I saw Abbey’s quote on a lookout exhibit, and knew right away that it’d be perfect. Never read him before now, but my husband owns a much-loved (read: very worn) copy. He’s a desert rat, and though I’m not, I’ve learned to appreciate its unique beauty.
I also highly recommend The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey. He was an amazing writer.
(Hide the SLR!)
I love those pictures. There’s something so beautiful about the dessert.
I like photographing the places I’m writing about. It helps me re-imagine the setting, and inspires me to think of new imagery with which to describe it.
And yes, the desert is beautiful. I feel the same way about desserts. *winks*
Oh man, I didn’t even notice my typo. *blush* But yet, there is also something beautiful about desserts. Especially if they have chocolate.
Just teasing. Hope you know that…I wouldn’t purposely embarass or offend you!
*offers you a 5-lb box of Godivas*
Oh definitely no offense taken. I’ve been known to tease some of my friends for their typos so it’s about time I pay my dues, right? But I will gladly take the Godivas. 😉
Oh definitely no offense taken. I’ve been known to tease some of my friends for their typos so it’s about time I pay my dues, right? But I will gladly take the Godivas. 😉
Once again you have transported us to a very beautiful place to let us see the masterful paint grush God has given. One only has to open their eyes to see this beauty. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Thanks for coming along on my “hike”! I’m always glad to have you along.
Thanks for coming along on my “hike”! I’m always glad to have you along.
I have never been a desert person at all but you are helping me to see the beauty of it. Thank you.
Wonderful photo’s, Melodye! I especially like the white flowers.