Turning Wood on A Lathe (a poem by Gary Bingham)
A hobby and for a small minority, a vocation
Wood secured to a spindle which moves in a circular motion at a high rate of speed
A wood turner standing nearby hopefully with a face shield and dust mask.
The turner in many cases has a plan to produce a bowl, vase, ornament or other object
With or without embellishment
This activity involves many processes with a set of tools called chisels, resting on a piece of metal, called a banjo
The process is very physical and demanding
Involves constant decisions
Regarding which tools to use and how to use them
New techniques are learned along with ancient practices
Chips fly, dust envelopes the area
The process requires deep concentration. A trance can occur in the mesmerizing stream of cut wood.
The process adds meaning to life through the power of creativity.
Patience is required and the ability to deal with mistakes, failure, cracks.
Correcting, resolving, overcoming design flaws is constant
The creative process is continued by sanding, applying finishes, polishing.
The joy of success in the finished product overcomes most life’s disappointments.
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