TAKING BACK THE PARKS

The cover reminded me of my favorite graffiti in Los Angeles County. When one visits the Huntington Botanical Gardens in San Marino, one is naturally drawn to the beautifully manicured theme gardens. Each has its own charm, but the Japanese garden is the most distinctive. Close inspection of the tall bamboo brings shock, then amusement. Visitors have left their marks by carving hundreds of ideograms on the trees. With no knowledge of the language, one leaves with a mixed impression. Strangers have defaced what others have created. But perhaps they have felt so welcome that they have treated this garden as they would their own. In any case, they have added an Eastern version that blends nicely with the diversity of Los Angeles.

RICHARD K. MOORE

Long Beach