Concept of Rebirth and Everlasting in ”The Evergreen A Northern Seasonal”

In the seasonally themed little magazine The Evergreen: A Nothern Seasonal, Winter, I found the concept of an everlasting piece of art really interesting. Through the use of art, this magazine sends a message of continuity. Specifically, the Egyptian inspired artwork, “Lapis Philosophorum,” by Patrick Geddes, which made me curious as to why would the editors include such contradictory artwork; it does not follow the wintery, or icy theme of this magazine. It is an astonishing piece, which showcases brilliant strokes of sun rays over the central stone. As discussed in the presentation today, this depiction of a blazing, summer day can be seen as a foreshadowing of the continuation of this winter edition. Following the season of winter – which is typically a reference to dark times or perhaps death of nature- the imagery of summer alludes to a re-birth, a strong comeback. 

Moreover, the title “Lapis Philosophorum,” translates to ‘Philosopher’s Stone’- which in itself speaks to the reasoning of including the article in this edition. The Philosopher’s Stone is a symbol of change, the transforming of metals; therefore the inclusion of a transformational figure again re-assures the aspect of a new beginning. Hence, the picturization of a shift from winter into summer and a symbol that represents a change, speaks to the idea of a changing but a permanent or continuous piece of work. Through this artwork, we can see how little magazines use the form of art to emphasize or advertise their intent. The Evergreen: Winter being a seasonal little magazine emphasizes and appreciates nature, so it makes sense that they would use a natural element – such as the sun- to tell its readers of its everlasting potential.