Robert Louis Stevenson: 'It is a golden maxim to cultivate the garden for the nose, and the eyes will take care of themselves.'

It is a golden maxim to cultivate the garden for the nose, and the eyes will take care of themselves.

The quote by Robert Louis Stevenson, "It is a golden maxim to cultivate the garden for the nose, and the eyes will take care of themselves," holds a simple yet powerful meaning. Essentially, it suggests that focusing on appealing to our sense of smell in cultivating a garden will naturally lead to visually pleasing results. In a straightforward manner, this quote highlights the importance of prioritizing the multi-sensory experience in our surroundings. However, to add a touch of intrigue and philosophical depth to this discussion, let us consider the concept of subjective perception.Perception, at its core, is a fascinating phenomenon. Each individual perceives the world around them through their unique lens, shaped by personal experiences, emotions, and biases. This notion brings forth the idea that what one person finds visually pleasing may not evoke the same response in another. In fact, beauty itself is often regarded as a subjective concept, varying from person to person. However, the olfactory sense, our sense of smell, seems to be less influenced by personal perception, making it an intriguing subject to explore in relation to Stevenson's quote.Our sense of smell is closely connected to our memories, emotions, and overall well-being. A pleasing aroma has the ability to transport us to different periods of our lives or evoke feelings of comfort and happiness. Thus, when Stevenson highlights the importance of cultivating a garden for the nose, he implies that by taking care of the olfactory experience, we can create a more universally pleasant environment.Delving deeper into this concept, we uncover the fascinating interplay between our senses. The fragrance of flowers, herbs, and other plants in a garden can act as a mesmerizing catalyst for a visually appealing experience. When we prioritize the olfactory aspect of gardening, we naturally select plants with aromatic qualities, enhancing the overall allure of the space. The fragrant blooms can introduce a captivating dimension that goes beyond mere aesthetics, engaging our senses on a profound level.Moreover, by concentrating on the olfactory aspect, gardeners may opt for a more diverse range of plants, each with distinctive scents. This approach adds depth and complexity to the garden, creating a sensory tapestry that evokes emotions and enhances the overall experience. Imagine walking through a garden where the air is filled with the delicate scent of roses, the earthy aroma of herbs, and the fresh fragrance of citrus blossoms. Such a place would undoubtedly captivate the senses, transcending the boundaries of mere visual appeal.In stark contrast, if we were to solely focus on the visual aspect of gardening, we might overlook the significance of scent. A garden might possess stunning colors and visually appealing designs, but without the olfactory element, it may seem incomplete, lacking a certain depth. By neglecting the fragrance of plants, we miss out on an opportunity to create a space that truly resonates with our entire being.In conclusion, Robert Louis Stevenson's quote encourages us to embrace the olfactory aspect of gardening. By cultivating scented plants and prioritizing the sense of smell, we can create an immersive and enchanting experience. This approach goes beyond mere aesthetics, enriching our connection with nature and invoking emotions that delight the soul. So, let us remember Stevenson's golden maxim and strive to cultivate gardens that not only please the eyes but also nourish and delight the senses as a whole.