Observatory
Elevated to suit needs..., when at war with pirates (high), or when at times of peace, low (as shown here)... this is the focal point of any island. Observatories are a practical necessity for the islanders. Because, it is here, that discussions take place, which leads to major decisions. (Not in the political island office... where it is usually a one man show.)
Call it a round-the-clock, multi-purpose post if you want.It is THE place to be... when you live life of the islands.
Here is a rundown of an itinerary... say, of a typical week day.
1. At dawn it is the elderly men who come to see off fishers.
2. In the mornings... from 9 onwards women folk take rest from the chores of house-wifery and congregate for a moment of gossip.
3. At midday its time for children and toddlers, after a day at reading class.
4. The mid-afternoons are for men (of all ages) to welcome back fishers.
5. Children dominate late afternoons until sunset, when it is prayer time and a major shift of duty takes place.
6. During evenings, by the moonlight... you guessed it, it is a lovers rendezvous.
Many many babies must have been conceived here.
The observatory is a small open hut built with coconut roofing and natural ventilation. It is used as a watch out post, for, it is strategically situated at the main entry point to the island. News can be relayed quickly to relevant points in the inside. The flooring is made of straight tree trunks... and may be slept on when there is a need.
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