paradise lost

so...they've had these magnificent flowers surrounding the library for the past several weeks--just gorgeous! i should have taken more pictures of it...but neglected to do so. here's one that i snapped just before coming to post:


now...i know it's a little old and wilty looking...but you can imagine the splendor of it all.

the post sadness also contains a closeup shot from the gardens...

and so, you can imagine my dismay and morbid fascination when, as i came in the west atrium entrance, i find a scene of carnage and destruction upon the field where once lay such beauteous wonder.



my only consolation is knowing that there will be something fresh, new and more befitting of the present season that will shortly replace this herbal armageddon.