Absence Quote by Alice Morse Earle
“We should have scant notion of the gardens of these New England colonists in the seventeenth century were it not for a cheerful traveller named John Josselyn, a man of everyday tastes and much inquisitiveness, and the pleasing literary style which comes from directness, and an absence of self-consciousness.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Historical Sketches of New England, 1902
Our knowledge of early New England gardens comes mainly from John Josselyn’s vivid, straightforward travel writings, which provide a rare, unpretentious view of colonial horticulture.
In simple terms: John Josselyn’s writings give us insight into early New England gardens.
Key Takeaway
Read primary sources to uncover everyday historical details.
Themes
history
gardening
colonial America
travel literature
Mood
curiosity
reflective
nostalgic
Type
historical
literary
When to use this quote
- museum exhibits
- heritage tours
- academic research
Key Concepts
primary source analysis
cultural heritage
environmental history
Questions to Reflect On
- What other sources could complement Josselyn’s accounts?
- How does his style affect our interpretation?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on a single traveler may give a limited perspective.
