"One marked feature of the people, both high and low, is a love for flowers"
- Robert Fortune
About this Quote
In the quote "One significant function of the people, both high and low, is a love for flowers," Robert Fortune records a universal aspect of humanity-- the gratitude for beauty, as exemplified by flowers. Fortune, a 19th-century Scottish botanist and plant hunter, is perhaps reviewing his experiences in different cultures, particularly in East Asia, where he conducted much of his plant expedition. Flowers, with their vibrant colors, detailed kinds, and oftentimes, delightful scents, have actually been objects of affection and symbolic meaning throughout nearly all societies throughout history.
When Fortune observes that both the "high and low" share a love for flowers, he underscores an egalitarian element of this appreciation. No matter social status or economic standing, the beauty of flowers transcends class divisions, working as a typical thread that unites individuals in shared adoration. This recommends that the pleasure of nature's charm is an intrinsic human trait, not restricted to a particular group or culture. From grandiose public gardens coming from royalty and elites to humble individual gardens or easy wildflower arrangements treasured by the less upscale, flowers play an essential role in human expression, celebration, and even consolation.
The appreciation for flowers likewise shows cultural customs and values. In many societies, flowers carry considerable symbolic significances, representing principles such as love, purity, transience, and even spirituality. They are integral to rituals, ceremonies, and life. For instance, in Japan, cherry blossoms signify the ephemeral nature of life, whereas in lots of Western cultures, roses are frequently associated with romance.
Fortune's observation catches the enduring and universal appeal of flowers, which continues to inspire art, poetry, and customs worldwide. This shared gratitude fosters connections amongst individuals, advising us of nature's ability to go beyond cultural and social barriers, providing charm that is accessible to all.
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