With its extraordinary views and unsurpassed setting, Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, was much more than just a country house and many of its finest features were outside, not inside. America's two most spectacular swimming pools, set within 120 acres of luxuriant gardens; the largest private zoo in the nation; and 450 square miles of pristine coastal landscape gave San Simeon its grandeur. Publisher William Randolph Hearst and actress Marion Davies hosted Hollywood royalty there from the 1920s through the 1940s, encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors at 'the ranch' created by architect and landscape architect Julia Morgan.For nearly thirty years, Morgan devoted her talents and efforts to the construction of the estate, producing the single greatest project ever designed by a woman. Including lively anecdotes from Hollywood stars and literary and political celebrities, excerpts from numerous letters between Hearst and Morgan, stunning colour photographs, historic photographs and original drawings, "Hearst's San Simeon: The Gardens and the Land" tells the whole story of one of California's most beautiful and unspoiled treasures.
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Wow, just finished "Hearst's San Simeon," and honestly, I'm still processing. This book isn't just a historical account; it feels like an invitation into a lost world. The author has a way of weaving words that transports you directly onto the sun-drenched hills of San Simeon, allowing you to almost feel the cool Mediterranean breeze and hear the distant murmur of the Pacific. What struck me most was the incredible attention to detail regarding the sheer audacity of Hearst's vision. It’s one thing to read about immense wealth and ambition, but to see it meticulously laid out, brick by shimmering brick, through the narrative, is truly something else. The descriptions of the opulent interiors, the sprawling grounds, and the art collected with such voracious appetite – it's almost overwhelming, in the best possible way. I kept picturing myself wandering through those grand halls, marveling at the sheer scale of it all. The author manages to capture not just the physical splendor, but also the *spirit* of the place, hinting at the parties, the discussions, the very air thick with a unique blend of privilege and artistic fervor. It’s a testament to the power of human imagination and the lengths to which one man went to manifest his dreams into tangible reality. I found myself constantly pausing, rereading passages, just to fully absorb the richness of the imagery. It's a book that demands to be savored, not rushed through. The prose is eloquent and evocative, painting vivid mental pictures that linger long after you've closed the cover. I felt like I gained a profound appreciation for the architectural marvels and the artistic treasures, but more importantly, for the overarching dream that fueled such an extraordinary endeavor.
评分This book, "Hearst's San Simeon," is an absolute feast for the senses and the intellect. The author has a truly masterful command of language, crafting sentences that are both beautiful and profoundly informative. I was captivated from the very first page by the vivid imagery and the sheer scope of what is described. It's more than just a description of a place; it's an immersion into an era, a lifestyle, and a singular vision. What truly resonated with me was the exploration of the artistic and architectural influences that converged at San Simeon. The way the author dissects the various inspirations, the historical periods referenced, and the sheer audacity of blending them into a cohesive whole is nothing short of brilliant. I found myself constantly looking up images and further information as I read, so stimulated was my imagination by the detailed descriptions. The book doesn't just present facts; it evokes a feeling, a sense of wonder and perhaps even a touch of envy for the experiences that unfolded within those hallowed walls. The narrative flows with a grace that belies the complexity of the subject matter, making it an incredibly enjoyable and enriching reading experience. It’s a book that encourages deep thought about the intersection of art, power, and personal expression. I felt my understanding of grand ambition and its tangible manifestations deepen considerably with every chapter. The author’s prose is a work of art in itself, painting a picture so vivid it feels as though you could reach out and touch the tapestries.
评分To be perfectly honest, I picked up "Hearst's San Simeon" with a certain degree of skepticism, expecting a perhaps overly romanticized or one-sided portrayal. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the author's nuanced approach and the depth of insight offered. The book manages to capture the grandeur of the estate without losing sight of the human element, offering glimpses into the personalities and motivations that shaped this extraordinary place. What I found particularly compelling was the way the author wove together the architectural marvels with the social and cultural context of the time. It's not just about the buildings; it's about the life that was lived within them, the conversations that took place, the influence that emanated from its legendary creator. The narrative skillfully balances historical detail with engaging storytelling, ensuring that the reader remains invested in the unfolding narrative. I appreciated the author's ability to present complex historical events and personalities in an accessible and thought-provoking manner. It's a book that encourages you to consider the legacy of such ambitious projects and their impact on the broader cultural landscape. The writing style is crisp and intelligent, avoiding unnecessary jargon while still conveying a wealth of information. It felt like a genuinely enlightening experience, shedding light on a fascinating chapter of history from a perspective that felt both informed and deeply considered. The author’s ability to convey the sheer scale of the enterprise while also highlighting the intricate details is truly impressive.
评分Honestly, picking up "Hearst's San Simeon" was more of a casual curiosity than anything else, and I'm so glad I gave it a chance. The author has a knack for making history feel incredibly immediate and relatable, even when dealing with a subject as grand as this. What really grabbed me was the way the book delves into the *process* behind such an monumental undertaking. It’s not just about the finished product, the gleaming façade, but the Herculean efforts, the logistics, the sheer willpower that went into transforming a vision into a functioning estate. I found myself particularly drawn to the sections that explored the challenges and triumphs of bringing such an ambitious project to fruition. The narrative doesn't shy away from the complexities, offering a multifaceted view that is both enlightening and inspiring. It's a story of incredible drive, of pushing boundaries, and of the relentless pursuit of something magnificent. I loved how the author managed to convey a sense of awe without veering into mere glorification; there's a groundedness to the storytelling that makes the achievements even more impressive. The meticulous research clearly shines through, giving the reader a solid foundation to understand the scope and ambition at play. It’s the kind of book that makes you reflect on your own endeavors, big or small, and the importance of perseverance. The author's style is engaging and accessible, making what could have been a dry historical account into a truly captivating read. I felt a genuine connection to the narrative, as if I were witnessing the unfolding of something truly remarkable.
评分"Hearst's San Simeon" turned out to be a much richer and more thought-provoking read than I had anticipated. The author possesses a remarkable talent for bringing historical subjects to life, and this book is a prime example of that skill. What truly captivated me was the exploration of the sheer ambition that fueled the creation of this iconic estate. It’s a testament to the power of a singular vision and the immense dedication required to bring such a monumental undertaking to fruition. The narrative masterfully navigates the complexities of the project, detailing the vast resources, the artistic collaborations, and the sheer logistical feats involved. I found myself constantly in awe of the scale and scope of what was achieved. The author's prose is both elegant and incisive, painting vivid mental images of the opulent interiors and the breathtaking landscapes. It's a book that invites contemplation, prompting reflections on the nature of wealth, taste, and the enduring power of human creativity. The storytelling is immersive, making it easy to get lost in the world of San Simeon and the fascinating individuals who were part of its creation. I felt a profound sense of appreciation for the artistic achievements and the historical significance of the estate after reading this book. The author’s ability to convey a sense of both historical gravity and intimate detail is remarkable, making for a truly unforgettable reading experience.
评分宏大的仿古城堡出自一个女性建筑师之手,引人好奇背后的故事。
评分宏大的仿古城堡出自一个女性建筑师之手,引人好奇背后的故事。
评分宏大的仿古城堡出自一个女性建筑师之手,引人好奇背后的故事。
评分宏大的仿古城堡出自一个女性建筑师之手,引人好奇背后的故事。
评分宏大的仿古城堡出自一个女性建筑师之手,引人好奇背后的故事。
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