Cascade V
The Cascade of Labor
Work eats our hours and shapes our hands. These voices ask what it is for, and what it costs when we forget.
On Work
“And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.” Book of Genesis, 1611
On Craft
“The mechanic, who wishes to do his work well, must first sharpen his tools.” Confucius, c. 479 BC
On Purpose
“There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour.” Ecclesiastes, 1611
On Ambition and Its Limits
“Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit.” Ecclesiastes, 1611
On Failure
“Between us and Goodness the gods have placed the sweat of our brows: long and steep is the path that leads to her, and it is rough at the first.” Hesiod, c. 700 BC
On Service to Others
“The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.” Book of Proverbs, 1611
On Reputation
“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” Book of Proverbs, 1611
On Laying Down the Work
“A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted.” Ecclesiastes, 1611