Darwin's “different forms of Flowers”

Abstract

THIS is another of the remarkable series of volumes in which Mr. Darwin has given us the extremely valuable results of his researches in the vegetable side of biology. Mr. Darwin's method of investigation would in itself be a very interesting subject for consideration. It is, however, sufficient to point out that its characteristic feature is the combined attack upon a given problem from both its morphological and physiological aspects. This method Mr. Darwin employs with consummate success, and in turning over the pages of the present book—a considerable part of which has been before the world for more than a decade without being materially impugned—one is almost distracted from the intrinsic interest of the facts and speculations by the sagacity with which the research is carried on, and the skill with which the results are marshalled for our information. It is peculiarly worthy of notice in the present volume how the reader is allowed, in studying Mr. Darwin's pages, to form his own hypotheses in explanation of the facts, only to be compelled in due course, as the narrative proceeds, to admit that such hypotheses are utterly untenable. There is no impression so curious as to find oneself so distinctly under the hands of a master, and to realise that the calm flow of the argument proceeds over the débris of objections and difficulties which are found to be already comminuted as soon as one attempts to give them any definite form.

The Different Forms of Flowers on Plants of the same Species.

By Charles Darwin. (London; John Murray, 1877.)