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Repton, Humphry, 1752-1818 / Fragments on the theory and practice of landscape gardening: including some remarks on Grecian and Gothic architecture, collected from various manuscripts, in the possession of the different noblemen and gentlemen, for whose use they were originally written; the whole tending to establish fixed principles in the respective arts
(1816)
Fragment XIII. Concerning interiors, pp. [52]-58
Page 58
58 and the modern living room: but as no drawing can describe those comforts enjoyed in the latter, or the silent gloom of the former, perhaps the annexed lines may be allowed to come in aid of the attempt to delineate both. A, MODERN LIVING-ROOM. No more the Cedar Parlour's formal gloom With dulness chills;tis now the Living Boom; Where Guests, to whim, or taste, or fancy true, Scatter'd in groups, their different plans pursue. Here Politicians eagerly relate The last day's news, or the last night's debate, - And there a Lover's conquer'd by Check-mate. Here books of poetry and books of prints Furnish aspiring Artists with new hints; Flow'rs, landscapes, figures, cram'd in one portfolio, There blend discordant tints to form an olio. While discords twanging from the half-tun'd harp, Make dulness cheerful, changing flat to sharp. Here, 'midst exotic plants, the curious maid Of Greek and Latin seems no more afraid. There lounging Beaux and Belles enjoy their folly, Nor less enjoying learned melancholy. Silent midst crowds the Doctor here looks big, Wrap'd in his own importance and his wig.
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