Memory is but a leaky vessel and the purest spirit is most likely to escape and leave nothing but the dregs behind. I have often regretted that interesting facts of daily occurrences and thoughts suggested by them, fade, or are entirely buried under subsequent accumulations: rendering my experience very narrow. As experience is the foundation on which we ought to build our conduct, it is desirable to have it as widely extended as possible and with this view I intend to record some of the passing circumstances of life so that in time to come I may look to the experience of the past, which if not instructive may yet be found amusing.
Entry dated Nov. 5 1834 from the the journal of Thomas Cole, Thoughts & Occurrences. Catskill: Thomas Cole Historica Site p. 1.
Artwork The Arcadian or Pastoral State, second painting in The Course of Empire, by Thomas Cole.