I grew up in a peat area. My whole settlement is surrounded by a moor. I was always told that the soil was leached out, that nothing would grow there at all and that the whole thing was only good for heating and enriching potting soil with it. Still a lot of peat is being mined there and the fields look a bit spooky because they are so dark. The geometric shapes that emerge during the mining process have their own beauty. I was vaguely aware that peat cutting is not particularly good for the environment. But then I asked myself what advantages it could have if you didn't burn it or expose it. Much of what we get from the depths of the earth is irretrievably lost and fertile topsoil, just like water, will become a treasure, it seems.
Your poem is a criticism of those who have everything and grant nothing to those who have nothing. But it also reminds me of my own abundance, in which I live my life so richly and fullly.
My dear Erika, So happy to see your comment here. Fascinating, how many people (on Steemit) live near peat bogs and how these bogs have been incorporated into daily life. I guess it seems exotic to me because I grew up between a mountain and a river-- surrounded by trees, vineyards and apple orchards.
One of the best parts about blogging is that I learn. Many threads grow from one idea. And then networking produces more threads. You know I find these irresistible--I'd love to see a picture of 'your' peat bog.
My mother-in-law used to tell me how she walked past a Big House on her way to school in Ireland. Her family was so poor. Perhaps it was her voice that came through.
I hope the summer is treating you well. It's very hot here, finally. I retreat into shaded air conditioning.
Love from hot, sticky New Yor
Yes, I make the same experiences. One thing leads to another. Sometimes I must collect myself not to lose all the threads I picked up.
I must look for a picture. I just have taken some when we visited the castle on Easter. The way to this place leads directly through the moor.
Growing up between mountain and river is much better, but thankfully on the other side of that area we have a lake and some little little mountains, too. :)
The heat today is almost unbearable.
You're right... it was a beautiful place to grow up. Gets under skin and never leaves.
finally found it! this I took just recently driving home after a day trip at Easter.
Wow! Cool. I've never seen a peat bog in person.