had to laugh at the names of the thatching -- it was all "palmettos" to us back in Orlando, all around the vacant lots. had to be careful about the spikey stems and blades. we tried to strip the blades and use the main stems for bows. they were the right length and quite sturdy but had a permanent bend that didn't really allow for it to be reactive enough to be able to pull it taught and let go of an arrow. and it was way too strong to bend and hold it in the opposite direction of its natural curve. So I had an excellent bought bow that really could be used. not that we actually used them a lot,, even for target practice. Mostly just envisioned ourselves as strong, dignified Indians. didn't try to kill cowboys nor were we afraid of either "side." seen many kinds of thatched dwellings and covers, etc., in rain forest of Ecuador. Such meticulous work!
Well what can one say after reading your magnificent essay? I too am aging and pretty content with the course my own life took, but I sincerely offer this.
You are an exemplar in many ways- a world class scientist, an artist of great gifts, an unrivaled handyman, wise in the ways of wood and thatch we now learn. A craftsman who not only knows the species in the path leading to the palapa he handbuilt, but also well capable of building the furniture in it! You are in many ways a Renaissance man, good at all you turn your mind and hands to. If my life had taken a different turn fifty years ago, i would wish it have been one following your forest path.
had to laugh at the names of the thatching -- it was all "palmettos" to us back in Orlando, all around the vacant lots. had to be careful about the spikey stems and blades. we tried to strip the blades and use the main stems for bows. they were the right length and quite sturdy but had a permanent bend that didn't really allow for it to be reactive enough to be able to pull it taught and let go of an arrow. and it was way too strong to bend and hold it in the opposite direction of its natural curve. So I had an excellent bought bow that really could be used. not that we actually used them a lot,, even for target practice. Mostly just envisioned ourselves as strong, dignified Indians. didn't try to kill cowboys nor were we afraid of either "side." seen many kinds of thatched dwellings and covers, etc., in rain forest of Ecuador. Such meticulous work!
Well what can one say after reading your magnificent essay? I too am aging and pretty content with the course my own life took, but I sincerely offer this.
You are an exemplar in many ways- a world class scientist, an artist of great gifts, an unrivaled handyman, wise in the ways of wood and thatch we now learn. A craftsman who not only knows the species in the path leading to the palapa he handbuilt, but also well capable of building the furniture in it! You are in many ways a Renaissance man, good at all you turn your mind and hands to. If my life had taken a different turn fifty years ago, i would wish it have been one following your forest path.