Shop millions of independent artists. Independent. Together.
Virginia Beach, VA
$162.50
Title
Sarah - Do Not Mourn Me Dead
Artist
Lianne Schneider
Medium
Digital Art - Digital Painting/photographic Art
Description
July 4th, 1861
Camp Clark, Washington
My dear Sarah:
The indications are very strong that we shall move in a few days - perhaps tomorrow. Lest I should not be able to write you again, I feel impelled to write lines that may fall under your eye when I shall be no more. Our movement may be one of a few days duration and full of pleasure - and it may be one of severe conflict and death to me. Not my will, but thine 0 God, be done. If it is necessary that I should fall on the battlefield for my country, I am ready. I have no misgivings about, or lack of confidence in, the cause in which I am engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter. I know how strongly American Civilization now leans upon the triumph of the Government, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of the Revolution. And I am willing - perfectly willing - to lay down all my joys in this life, to help maintain this Government, and to pay that debt.
But, my dear wife, when I know that with my own joys I lay down nearly all of yours, and replace them in this life with cares and sorrows - when, after having eaten for long years the bitter fruits of orphanage myself, I must offer it as their only sustenance to my dear little children - is it weak or dishonorable, while the banner of my purpose floats calmly and proudly in the breeze, that my unbounded love for you, my darling wife and children, should struggle in fierce, though useless, contest with my love of country?
I cannot describe to you my feelings on this calm summer night, when two thousand men are sleeping around me, many of them enjoying the last, perhaps, before that of death - and I, suspicious that Death is creeping behind me with his fatal dart, am communing with God, my country, and thee.
I have sought most closely and diligently, and often in my breast, for a wrong motive in thus hazarding the happiness of those I loved and I could not find one. A pure love of my country and of the principles I have often advocated before the people and the name of honor that I love more than I fear death have called upon me, and I have obeyed.
Sarah, my love for you is deathless, it seems to bind me to you with mighty cables that nothing but Omnipotence could break. And yet my love of Country comes over me like a strong wind and bears me irresistibly on with all those chains, to the battlefield.
The memories of all the blissful moments I have enjoyed with you come creeping over me, and I feel most grateful to God and to you that I have enjoyed them so long. And how hard it is for me to give them up and burn to ashes the hopes of the future years, when God willing, we might still have lived and loved together and seen our sons grow up to honorable manhood around us. I have, I know, but few and small claims upon Divine Providence, but something whispers to me - perhaps it is the wafted prayer of my little Edgar - that I shall return to my loved ones unharmed. If I do not, my dear Sarah, never forget how much I love you, and as my last breath escapes me on the battlefield, it will whisper your name. Forgive my many faults, and the many pains I have caused you. How thoughtless and foolish I have often times been! How gladly would I wash out with my tears every little spot upon your happiness, and struggle with all the misfortune of this world, to shield you and your children from harm. But I cannot. I must watch you from the Spirit-land and hover near you, while you buffet the storm with your precious little freight, and wait with sad patience till we meet to part no more.
But, O Sarah! If the dead can come back to this earth and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you in the garish day and in the darkest nights amidst your happiest scenes and gloomiest hours - always, always, and if there be a soft breeze upon your cheek, it shall be my breath; or the cool air fans your throbbing temple, it shall be my spirit passing by. Sarah, do not mourn me dead - think I am gone and wait for thee, for we shall meet again.
As for my little boys, they will grow as I have done, and never know a father's love and care. Little Willie is too young to remember me long, and my blue eyed Edgar will keep my frolics with him among the dimmest memories of his childhood.
Sarah, I have unlimited confidence in your maternal care and your development of their characters, and feel that God will bless you in your holy work. Tell my two mothers, his and hers, I call God's blessing upon them. O Sarah, I wait for you there! Come to me, and lead thither my children.
Sullivan
The image is a composite of images taken at Stones River National Battlefield, just south of Nashville, Tennessee and incorporates several aspects of the battle reenactment. The letter, however, is the famous Sullivan Ballou letter to his wife, Sarah, on the eve of an entirely different battle. Ballou was a Union soldier. This letter and the music were made famous in the Ken Burns PBS series on the Civil War, where the letter was read aloud with the music as background.
MCN :: CUNBN-1YNSE-4BB56
This poignant letter set to music -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sa2hv8U8cWU - Sullivan Ballou letter to the music of Ashokan Farewell by Jay Unger
Uploaded
June 19th, 2012
Statistics
Viewed 2,205 Times - Last Visitor from Fairfield, CT on 04/25/2024 at 12:48 AM
Embed
Sales Sheet
Mount Airy, MD - United States
Lianne, I saw the image, saw the title and immediately the strains of Ashoken Farewell rang in my mind. Great work. - Mike (V)
Philadelphia, PA - United States
Lianne -- the thoughts, textures, emotions, historical data & patriotic pride you have skillfully layered with such a gossamer touch upon this artful re-enactment -- fit together as organically as the skins of an onion. When peeled away one by one, they evoke in the viewer tears of joy at having been allowed to share vicariously in the pathos that enveloped the original event. Blessings & gratitude for giving us the additional bounty of Sullivan Ballou's final preserved words in this world, filled with humility before the One who created it, & love for his family & fellow humans.
Lianne Schneider replied:
That has got to be the most thoughtful and beautiful comment I've ever received on anything Joseph. I'm touched more deeply than I can say and overwhelmed with gratitude as well. I've always been haunted by the sacrifices made for us from the very beginning and Ken Burns magnificent Civil War series with its exquisite music of the Ashoken Farewell seemed to call for me to create something in tribute. Thank you so very much.
Strykersville, NY - United States
Thank you so much Darren for featuring this image in 3 A DAY WAITING ROOM ART. I so appreciate it.
Strykersville, NY - United States
Thank you all so much for your lovely comments and support...that means so much. I hope that if I haven't already, you'll soon see me visiting your work to say a personal thank you.
Smithfield, VA - United States
Lianne, I came back again to see this remarkable picture as well as to read the letter in the description. My husband and I recently watched the movie: "Lincoln". I guess you have seen it. I always learn so much when visiting your site on FAA. Your images alone are so well done and powerful (as well as beautiful.) Then the extra bonus of reading the descriptions often touches my heart. Thank you again. F/V.
Smithfield, VA - United States
Thank you so much for your kind and gracious words about Autumn Hideaway Revisited.
Smithfield, VA - United States
Lianne, I was looking for an image of yours that I had not previously commented about. I don't know how I missed this one. The image itself is splendid. The composition is perfect. Then, then then! I read the prose along with it which brought tears to my eyes. Lianne, your work on FAA is remarkable & your meaningful prose along with it is also GREAT. F/V
Glenford, Oh - United States
Lianne - This is a superb representation of the civil war era. It is such a touching image along with it's title. I love visiting the sites that formed our history as this and every time I do I feel so small in the areas that had so much suffering... v/f
Lianne Schneider replied:
Oh my Lord - John...my deepest apologies for allowing this amazing, thoughtful and insightful comment to slip through the cracks. It's so very lovely of you and I do appreciate it very much.
Santa Rosa De Calamuchita, Co - Argentina
Lianne, you have such incredible art in your galleries! This one is so emotional. I really, really like it! A V&F from me.
Lianne Schneider replied:
Thank you so very much Nelieta - what an incredibly lovely compliment. I am very touched by that.
Mijas, Ma - Spain
Immensely moving artwork. I think of this piece - as I do so many of yours (and my own), as composite of image and words as a single work. The gloss greatly enhances an already very effective picture and sets one pondering. It reminds one how astonishingly powerful the force of political conviction can be, that it can put itself ahead of the most powerful and close family love, and in individuals of evident great character, depth and strength of will. A man like Sullivan Ballou is no ordinary man - and no doubt there were many others like him - who dearly loved their families but risked all for the cause. Probably they knew that there was no alternative, for once a nation is at war with itself, there can be no peace in evasion. The consequences of war, of victory and defeat, will be reaped, and will be visited upon all whether they took part in the war or not. Therefore there is something of the admission of destiny in going to war like this, as well as conviction, perhaps. It is a job that may or may not be relished but cannot be avoided, and a strong man went into it with a stout heart and without failing to recognise what he may lose by doing so, nor failing to acknowledge his responsibilities to those he loved. Very moving. v/f
Lianne Schneider replied:
I am deeply moved by your gracious, generous and extremely insightful comment Arjun. I think that all you speak of here is exactly what I was trying to capture...the Ballou letter has always moved me deeply to think of sacrifice, priority and the meaning of patriotism. At a time when patriotism seems a catch word for knee-jerk reactions and diminishing freedoms, it's important to look at it more objectively. I cannot tell you how very much your intelligent, articulate and thoughtful comment means to me. Thank you seems too little to say in response.
Lake Worth, FL - United States
Beautiful image, presentation, and description to accompany it. Great job Lianne! We Voted! Celebrate life, Debra and Dave
Lianne Schneider replied:
I'm glad this touched you two - you can't imagine how much I appreciate your lovely comment. Thank you so much.
Eagar, AZ - United States
I believe everything has already been said...
Lianne Schneider replied:
Thank you so much Juls - I'm very flattered and honored by that lovely comment.
Wesley, ME - United States
Very moving presentation Lianne, the letter and the image go hand in hand to remind us of the human cost in all wars. Your beautiful painting truly deserves to be seen and treasured. v/f
Lianne Schneider replied:
so sorry Susan - forgot to hit reply! Lianne Schneider Reply | Delete The cost - so high always - but thank God there have been those willing to pay such a price. It seemed fitting as we near July 4th that we remember the principles for which so many gave their lives. Thank you so very much Susan.
Ankara - Turkey
On the edge of death in the heart of life.. V/f
Lianne Schneider replied:
You're so very kind Hayrettin - and exactly right. The letter here says just that - a remarkable testament to the enduring human spirit. Thank you so much.
Melbourne - Australia
Deeply moving both in image and writing. FV
Lianne Schneider replied:
Thank you so very much Rosy - this letter has always evoked strong feelings in me so I'm very glad you like it!
Brookeville, MD - United States
Superb image and processing, Lianne!!!! Beautiful .. and so moving!!!
Lianne Schneider replied:
Ah Lois - thank you so very much. I know you don't live that far from many of the battlefields so you're surrounded by history. You're a treasure my friend. xo
Albany, OR - United States
Lianne, this image really moved me, especially as I read the excerpt from the diary. My dad was a Civil War buff and the summer of my sixteenth birthday we piled in the car and took a cross-country trip. I remember visiting Civil War battlefields like Gettysburg & Appomattox, and thinking about the young men who lost their lives there. What a beautiful reminder of their sacrifices--they were real people with families who missed them terribly. I love how you've combined your art with such poignant words!
Lianne Schneider replied:
What a wonderful memory Bonnie - I'm so glad this image resurrected that for you. And what a stunningly beautiful and touching comment - so full of insight and compassion. Thank you so much!
Anderson, CA - United States
Oh my dear Lianne, such a dynamic and poignant image - the historical letter is like icing on the cake! Wonderful work my sweet friend! jd
Lianne Schneider replied:
Thank you so much dear Joyce - it was the letter and the music that got me! I'm so glad you could feel that too. xox
Amarillo, Tx - United States
Love the nostalgia of this wonderful image, Lianne. My GGGranddaddy fought for the south...f/v
Lianne Schneider replied:
Awww Karen - then it's good to remember our history - as a nation and individually - and remember too the sacrifices made for principles along the way. Thank you so much!
Ormeau, Qu - Australia
Outstanding Digital Art Lianne and incorporated with such a moving letter v/tw/g/v... superb work my friend and my compliments to you..... Blair
Lianne Schneider replied:
Ah Blair - I suspect you and I would get along famously on an outing because your love of history shows in your work too and I adore ships and anything to do with the sea...so.... Thank you so much Blair.
Culleoka, TN - United States
Excellent work, Lianne. Love the vintage feel. The post processing is wonderful. Vote.
Norwalk, Oh - United States
What a beautiful image. Love the vintage look and your awesome texture work. Voted.
Lianne Schneider replied:
You are so very gracious and generous Mary - thank you so very much. I appreciate that a great deal.
Lake Country, BC - Canada
You put so much effort and research into your work, Lianne- beautifully presented!!
Lianne Schneider replied:
Such a generous and lovely thing to say Will - thank you so much for that.
Longview, TX - United States
Wonderful work, Lianne! I admire your love of history!
Lianne Schneider replied:
Thank you so much Kim - I do love history actually very much...and you are into this history as well I know! Your reenactment pieces are fabulous! Thank you.
Storybrooke, ME - United States
Lianne you create the greatest images! This one takes me back in time. "My Dear Sarah" touching and perfectly paired with your artwork. v/f
Lianne Schneider replied:
You're always so very gracious Bob and more than generous with your lovely comments. Thank you so much.
Cape Coral, FL - United States
Excellent image of life during the civil war. The words are a wonderful addition to the image. Beautiful work. voted
Gettysburg, PA - United States
A wonderful and evocative image!!!! Living in Gettysburg, Pa., the Civil War is very close to home for me. Beautifully complimented by the writing!
Lianne Schneider replied:
Have been to and through Gettysburg often - my son lives in VA so it's enroute. Thanks so much Angela - that means so much!
Bucharest, Ro - Romania
What a moving work you created and the letter is so touching. Outstanding piece, Lianne. f,v
Lianne Schneider replied:
Thank you so much dear Ana - it seems we've each evoked emotion with our last work - yours moved me a great deal too. I so appreciate your constant support. xo
Rawdon, QC - Canada
such poignant words and image together, Lianne! Must be such a difficult time to go through for all those men... and women.... sad reality :( fantastic in all!
Lianne Schneider replied:
Thank you so much Aimelle - this is a very touching piece of history that just makes me weep for the world sometimes.
Dubai, D - United Arab Emirates
Very touching,Lianne.....Nobody can view this narrative painting, with out a drop of tear in their eyes.....V
Lianne Schneider replied:
Oh Latha that's just such a wonderful sentiment. If everyone felt that, perhaps we could find it in our hearts to make peace all over the world.
Green Lane, PA - United States
V/F!!! AWESOME! Your love of history shows in your work, and you bring us into the reality that is war, suffering, death, and love; love never-ending, love that goes on beyond the grave. How sad that mankind cannot live in peace. Anyway - this is fantastic, Lianne:>)
Lianne Schneider replied:
Oh Carol what a wonderful comment. Yes, I do love history - that was my undergrad degree - but this letter meant so much more than that. As you say...love never-ending, beyond death. I think that's what always got to me about this and every time I hear that music I think of this. Thank you!
Lakeland, FL - United States
lianne, this is one of the most heart rending, beautiful love letters and images I've ever visited. How beautifully he proclaims his love and how wonderful the letter has been preserved. It makes me think of my own husbands time in Viet Nam, torn between country and family. What a sad time. wonderful piece, v/f
Lianne Schneider replied:
My husband served in VietNam too as did my brother and I know, even though it was early in that conflict, before all the peace riots etc., that they both struggled with the choice. That's one of the reasons this letter has always touched me. Thank you so much Sharon.
Silicon Valley, CA - United States
Wow, this piece of work you created is amazing, Lianne! Read this letter, it made me in tears. I really adore the hero had such a big heart to devote his life to the country, but still loved his families deeply... What a spirit! Thanks for sharing it, so beautiful and touching!!
Lianne Schneider replied:
Oh thank you so much Xueling - it means so much to me that you caught the spirit of love that lies under the words.
Pueblo, CO - United States
How unbelievably moving this is, both in art and writing, even for someone who hates war and who would not put principle above the well-being of family, if choice be allowed. Bravo. v/f
Lianne Schneider replied:
I hate war too Lenore - and I can think of few things I could even contemplate putting ahead of family. But I think that the love expressed here is significant in its expression of the truth that love survives death. Thank you so much my friend.
Please Wait...
Sign up for our newsletter for exclusive deals, discount codes, and more.
Server Status OK
Copyright © 2024 Licensing.Pixels.com - All Rights Reserved
Share
Comment, Like, Favorite
0
0
0
0
0
33
0
51