"The Colour of Life" by Alice Meynell is a collection of reflective essays likely written in the late 19th century. This work showcases Meynell's lyrical prose and keen observations on the interplay of colors in life, nature, and existence, examining how these themes manifest in human experiences and perceptions. At the start of the book, the author intricately discusses the symbolism of colors, particularly red, which she argues represents violence rather than
the essence of life. The narrative shifts to contemplate the more subtle and less explicit colors that characterize the human experience, emphasizing beauty in the understated hues of nature. Meynell vividly describes scenes from London, focusing on the contrast between urban life and the natural world, highlighting the vibrant humanity represented by a child amidst a grey cityscape. Through these reflections, she invites readers to reconsider the significance of color in conveying life's deeper meanings and emotions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The colour of life -- A point of biography -- Cloud -- Winds of the world -- The honours of mortality -- At monastery gates -- Rushes and reeds -- Eleonora Duse -- Donkey races -- Grass -- A woman in grey -- Symmetry and incident -- The illusion of historic time -- Eyes.
Credits
Transcribed from the 1897 John Lane edition by David Price
Reading Level
Reading ease score: 68.3 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
