As our very own Canadian Thanksgiving approaches, I thought a little detour
via Ferney would not hurt –
Ferney, where Voltaire spent the last 20 years of his life cultivating a strong interest in agriculture and craftsmanship. Philosopher, satirist, businessman – yes. But farmer? Well yes, that too.
The man dabbled in everything, and from his French estate near the Swiss border, he took a keen interest in various agricultural methods,
experimenting with new ones to boost productivity, proudly working his own fields, and even acquiring what was then the height of agrarian technology – a seed-drill plough, the nec plus ultra of his time.
Had he lived in our era, perhaps he would have championed the Green Revolution, deleterious side effects and all.
But we cannot fault this apostle of reason and progress — he did not have today’s knowledge of soil health or the long-term impact of the plough. Perhaps he would have abandoned the use of the plough altogether had he known about its harmful effects.
Environment Canada is forecasting a cool weekend — the perfect occasion for root vegetables and hearty soups. In this week’s basket:
a variety of winter squash, rutabagas, carrots or beets, potatoes, celeriac, Napa or green cabbage, garlic, fresh herbs, and a leafy green.
We look forward to seeing you all again!