Re: bumpy fields | Forum — The Modern Antiquarian

Rhiannon Jan 15, 2007 09:17:40

Replying to Mr Hamhead

heheh just so long as you know!! And I wouldn't be wasting time on a bumpy field if I was surrounded by burial chambers and big rocks, I'm sure.

Sometimes I think though, if you've got the background waffle you can bring unprepossessing piles of rocks to life a bit, can't you (which is what you do for a living I think? and why I persist with my postings -you're right I'm lucky to have time to read). Also (and this is a whinge I do have with lots of sites on tma) there's more to see at a barrow/pile of stones than just the monument itself, like the view from it, or its relationship to other features/sites in the landscape, which make you think about why it was put where it was put. Which I'm sure is at the forefront of lots of people's minds when they trek out to these places and stop for a sarnie. Like as an example, I imagine the field at Harlyn must have a beautiful view of the bay and its big surfy waves?

Rhiannon Jan 15, 2007 09:30:20

Replying to Rhiannon

ps I am in a very grumpy mood today. I actually think all the postings on tma are lovely.

Littlestone Jan 15, 2007 10:04:51

Replying to Rhiannon

...there's more to see at a barrow/pile of stones than just the monument itself, like the view from it, or its relationship to other features/sites in the landscape, which make you think about why it was put where it was put.

Aye, that's true enough :-) ...

"Looking for something else, I came once
To a cromlech in a field of barley,
Whoever framed that field had real
Priorities. He sowed good grain
To the tombs doorstep. No path...

The bearded foam, rummaged
By wind from the westerly sea-track,
Broke short not over it. Skirted
By squalls of that year's harvest,
That tomb belonged in that field."*

* http://www.themodernantiquarian.com/forum/?thread=23046&offset=50

slumpystones Jan 15, 2007 19:02:51

Replying to Rhiannon

Rhiannon wrote:

I totally agree - very often the site itself is a little disappointing, but it is saved by the amazing views. Some sites are indeed better used as viewpoints than as a focal point.