Photo by author, Stuart Aken

Oddities Observed On Outings #4

Tree Home

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Coming across these tiny clogs, with the small door leading into the mystery space in the tree roots, in the Forest of Dean, was what inspired the idea for this series. By no means the only careful construction we’ve encountered on our various walks, it was definitely the one that showed most creative thought and care.

To take the time and effort to construct these items and then to leave them for only the most observant to discover seems to suggest both unusual optimism and an extraordinary level of trust in humanity.

We first saw this charming arrangement in June 2023, and it remains in place even now, though time and weather has changed it a little. The basic components remain. At least no selfish giant has removed them, which provides a little more confidence in our fellow humans.

Is the resident elf at home still? And does he/she wear those beautifully crafted clogs when exploring the surrounding forest? Is that exquisite small door proof enough against would-be intruders, keeping the occupant/s safe?

It makes us smile to have discovered this unusual find and see it each time we pass that way. Our thanks to the anonymous artist who created it.

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Stuart Aken
Stuart Aken

Written by Stuart Aken

Word-wrangler and storyteller. Photographer. Artist. Reader. Humanist, internationalist, secular, political, environmental. Blog http://stuartaken.net/

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