10 Comments
User's avatar
Jim the Geek's avatar

Fascinating as usual. What the victorians did with flowers, the youth of today manage with text messages, emojis, and memes.

Expand full comment
Linda Caroll's avatar

I guess young people will always find language the older generation doesn't know whether it's flowers or slang.

Expand full comment
Jenine Baines's avatar

"Almost every household had that book sitting right next to the bible."

I want one. I wonder if it's still in print?

I've known of the Language of Flowers but didn't know why the passion for it withered. All the different meanings.

Loved this article since I love flowers....and I loved learning about Canterbury Bells! Back at you, here's a bouquet

Expand full comment
Linda Caroll's avatar

Want to fall over in shock? Abe's books has one, it's $335.

https://www.abebooks.com/Langage-fleurs-Cinqui%C3%A8me-%C3%A9dition-Paris-Audot/16053567735/bd

If you read French, there's a digital copy here: https://digital.library.cornell.edu/catalog/flow2682206

Expand full comment
Jenine Baines's avatar

I am so laughing. I want the book...but I am alas not Oprah. I DID end up buying some Lang of Flowers book from Amazon, claiming the 'language' is Victorian. I want to revive the trend - such a fun surprise for friends.

Expand full comment
Linda Caroll's avatar

I know, right? I mean, I get that it's from the 1800s, but wow. I had a good laugh too.

Expand full comment
Dakota Duncan's avatar

I didn't think I'd be interested in this article, but since it's yours, I tried it. I was so wrong. Thanks for another fascinating history lesson. :)

Expand full comment
Linda Caroll's avatar

Thanks, Dakota -- what a nice thing to say!

Expand full comment
Linda Ann Robinson's avatar

Beautiful.

Expand full comment
Linda Caroll's avatar

Thanks, Linda. Some people think Shakespeare's use of the language of flowers means his writing was influenced by a woman. I find that interesting.

Expand full comment