This view looks across the Elmley Marshes on the Isle of Sheppey in the Thames Estuary. I took it some time ago (8th. March 2012 to be precise) and it caught my eye sifting through some old files. Then as now I was struck by the contrast between natural and man-made forms.

 In the intervening period I have taken a number of courses covering aspects of Permaculture taught by Aranya who has a wealth of insight and information on all things permacultural. Seeing the photograph with fresh eyes I immediately connected the image with something Aranya has spoken of. He makes the point that natural forms (like shapes and patterns) are the most effective way of fulfilling a function.

 In this case the flow of water at low tide wends its way through the mudflats following the path of least resistance. Humans on the other hand tend to take the view that the quickest way from A to B is in a straight line (which is often the path of most resistance!). A straight line can be effective in some respects but those of us interested in ecology and the natural world have considerable misgivings about where that straight line is pointing... 

 

NB Aranya's website Learn Permaculture is a good place to start to access some of the teaching resources he has available.