"an iron contrivance . . . " ("a kind of hydrant") II
In this view, we can see clearly why Cummings called the pump "a kind of
hydrant" or a "contrivance" (157), since it looks nothing like a pump.
Unfortunately, we cannot see the "stubby lever which,when pressed down,yielded
grudgingly a spout of whiteness." Notice, however, the boards on which the
"contrivance" rests, a clear sign of the well-hole underneath. Notice also
the wall. Cummings writes: "The contrivance was placed in sufficiently close
proximity to a low wall so that one of the catchers might conveniently sit
on the wall and keep the water spouting with a continuous pressure of his
foot,while the other catcher manipulated a tin pail with telling effect"
(Enormous Room 157-158). [This photo also appears on the "place du Midi (Général
De Gaulle)" page at the site "La
Ferté-Macé, hier,... par les cartes postales anciennes."]
Back to:
Gill, "Windows of Nowhere"
Enormous Room page
More photos of La Ferté Macé
"an iron contrivance . . . " (page 1)
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