The New Morality, Stroke 2

The chain saws are whirring merrily in Dublin these days.
The fear that trees may drop branches and leaves has
encouraged a very serious response by public bodies.
And since it is the dormant season,
several months of tree work lie ahead.


The urban landscape is changing very quickly,
which is enjoyable and, when sensitively done,
makes people feel more comfortable in their
public spaces.

However, the Ents in Tolkein's fantasy would groan louder
than usual at some of the lopping
and pollarding being done in the name of "safety".

If this continues, there will not be much reason
for people walking in cities to look upwards,
as is usual when admiring a tree.



Good Heavens? There will be nothing there.