92x Journey's End by Paintings by Norman Neasom (1915 - 2010)

Journey's End - The Golden Heart

Watercolour - Signed and dated 1992

Image: 100mm x 130mm Framed: 340mm x 350mm

Exhibited at Royal Birmingham Society of Artists

165th Annual Exhibition October 1992

One of Norman's favourite names for an inn was The Golden Heart. Many of Norman's paintings have a hidden meaning and although this painting shows the weary traveller reaching the end of his journey, the painting was inspired from the quote by John Dryden from Palamon and Arcite.

Since every man who lives is born to die, And none can boast sincere felicity, With equal mind, what happens, let us bear, Nor joy nor grieve too much for things beyond our care. Like pilgrims to th'appointed place we tend: The world's an inn, and death the journey's end

The story is of two knights imprisoned by Theseus after being found unconscious after a battle. Theseus locks Palamon and Arcite in a dungeon where the two knights can see into a courtyard or garden. One day Palamon, looking through the bars of his cell, sees Emily. Falling in love instantly, Palamon cries out, causing Arcite to ask his friend what is wrong. Palamon declares his new found love for Emily, and as Arcite listens, he sees Emily. Turning to Palamon, Arcite claims that because he first recognized her as mortal and not a goddess

Later, one of Arcite's friends begs Theseus to free his prisoner; Theseus agrees, but banishes Arcite. The love-struck knight returns, disguised as one of Theseus's servants. The story unfolds as each knight endures different challenges to prove his love for Emily

This work is in a private collection