F
lowers have acquired symbolic meanings in many cultures throughout the ages. During
the 19th century, however, writers in France, England and America created an elaborate “language” of flowers and published dictionaries of their sentimental meanings. These lavishly illustrated books often included flower poetry and folklore as well. Part of their appeal was the notion that they revealed some secret romantic language from the past. Although inspired by history, they were actually literary creations of the time. The Victorian language of flowers drew from a variety of exotic sources. Tales from the Turkish harem told of rhyming games that linked objects, including flowers, with their meanings. Greek and Roman mythology figured prominently, as did Medieval Christian symbolism. Color was important: red for passion, white for purity, and purple for royalty or power. Authors frequently combined traditional meaning with new ones of their own, usually based on some particular quality of the plant. In its heyday, the language of flowers was widely enjoyed as a fanciful pastime. Its advice, however contradictory, was always amusing and engaging. It still holds a nostalgic fascination for us and adds to our delights of flowers.
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Lan guage o f F lo wers
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Langu age of Fl ower s
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The
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Lan guage o f F lo wers
The
Langu age of Fl ower s
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