House of the Seven Gables Literary Flower Chart Sweatshirt

"The evil of these departed years would naturally have sprung up again, in such rank weeds (symbolic of the transmitted vices of society) as are always prone to root themselves about human dwellings. Phoebe saw, however, that their growth must have been checked by a degree of careful labor, bestowed daily and systematically on the garden. The white double rose-bush had evidently been propped up anew against the house, since the commencement of the season; and a pear-tree and three damson-trees, which, except a row of currant-bushes, constituted the only varieties of fruit, bore marks of the recent amputation of several superfluous or defective limbs. There were also a few species of antique and hereditary flowers, in no very flourishing condition, but scrupulously weeded; as if some person, either out of love or curiosity, had been anxious to bring them to such perfection as they were capable of attaining."

Currant bushes symbolize hope and forgiveness, as the Pyncheon and Maule lines eventually come to friendlier terms. Damson pear means rebirth and longevity, reflecting the multiple generations living in the house.

Alice Pyncheon's white roses symbolize her purity and innocence, and though the posies aren't mentioned by name (posy, after all, meaning a collection of flowers of any type), the real life Seven Gables feature beautiful geraniums of a cultivar no longer grown commercially. Geraniums can mean elegance, and Alice was well known for her tenderness and grace.

Though the book does not mention lilac or wisteria, these are two prominent features of the grounds of the real life House of Seven Gables. Caroline Emmerton, who established the house as a museum, remarked, “I remember the thrill that the gaunt old house gave me when I first caught sight of it. It was shrouded in lilac bushes. They loomed high above a very high fence, and above the lilacs rose the dark old house, craned by its steeply sloping roof.” Lilacs symbolize spirituality, and The House of Seven Gables is, at its heart, concerned with the human spirit - especially the ones that still haunt its halls. Wisteria, too, means endurance - perfect for this storied old house.

F I T  &  C A R E 

• Please refer to the size chart in the last listing photo for measurements
• Unisex fit
• 50% Cotton, 50% Polyester
• Size 1-2 times up for oversized, 3+ for a cozy sweatshirt dress!
• Machine wash on cold with like colors. Tumble dry low. Do not iron or dry clean.

S H I P P I N G  &  P O L I C I E S

• Made with love: This item is custom printed and handmade especially for you at the time you order it.
• Please allow 2-5 business days for production and 3-5 days for shipping.
• Because our items are made to order, please note that we do not accept returns or exchanges
• Please feel free to ask any questions about your order! We love chatting with our fellow book lovers!

With love,
[© For Wednesdays Child]