Concerning landscape and garden design, Alexander Pope believed that the Genius Loci was important and should be consulted.  The Genius Loci, in Roman mythology, was the protective or "guardian spirit" of a place. 

In Epistle IV to the Earl of Burlington, Pope emphasized his point.  Consult the genius of the place in all;/That tells the waters or to rise, or fall;/Or helps th' ambitious hill the heav'ns to scale,/Or scoops in circling theatres the vale;/Calls in the country, catches opening glades,/Joins willing woods, and varies shades from shades,/Now breaks, or now directs, th' intending lines;/Paints as you plant, and, as you work, designs.

Pope's point was a good one.  The garden design should enhance the environment.  It should complement nature.  The Genius Loci will tell you what is needed if you listen closely enough.  

Update on Monday May 11, 2009