Today as in the time of Pliny and Columella, the hyacinth flourishes in Wales, the periwinkle in Illyria, the daisy on the ruins of Numantia; while around them cities have changed their masters and their names, collided and smashed, disappeared into nothingness, their peaceful generations have crossed down the ages as fresh and smiling as on the days of battle.

Summary

This quote highlights the resilience and continuity of nature throughout history. It compares the persistence of flowers like the hyacinth, daisy, and periwinkle in their respective regions with the upheaval and changes that cities and civilizations have undergone over time. Despite the conflicts, conquests, and eventual disappearance of these cities, the flowers continue to flourish as if untouched by the chaos around them. This serves as a metaphor for the enduring beauty and tranquility of nature that remains constant, even amidst the turmoil and transience of human history.

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