"What a Lovely Thing a Rose is!”

  As I'm currently reading a collection of Sherlock Holmes stories, I felt compelled to share a section of writing.  Many of these stories are from the 19th century, but the writing still feels fresh and relevant.  And let me say, I know that his character has been adapted to movies and TV, but I really prefer the books; I like that Holmes as a character is left to my own imagination--other than a few descriptions, I can visualize my own image of Sherlock Holmes.
   The excerpt below is from a story called The Naval Treaty (1893).  I won't attempt any analysis, but give it a read and let it sink in.  I've read it a few times and I'm still thinking about it myself because it's a beautiful piece of writing.
  For a bit of context, Holmes is working on a case and goes to visit the person (Percy Phelps) who requested him.  Holmes is in the room and notices a rose and then drifts into a state of contemplation.  What he says about the rose is what really resonated with me.

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  On a semi-related note: I'm also currently reading a book called Secrets of Monet's Garden: Bringing the Beauty of Monet's Style to Your Own Garden by Derek Fell.  I'll share more about it once I've finished reading it.  As a painter, I think it's important to embrace other art-forms and to find inspiration in books which can enlighten my own work.