gleaning :: biting the dust

Landowners permitting the collection of missed or leftover ears of corn or wheat after harvest, as depicted in Jean François Millet's 1857 painting The Gleaners, was seen an early form of welfare for the poor and hungry. However, such is the ruthless efficiency of modern farming that the very notion of 'leftovers' is all but obsolete. Long range agricultural weather forecasts mean farmers can predict the best time to harvest almost to the hour. Modern harvesting techniques suck up every last ear and head - almost literally.

I was tasked with finding a few heads of wheat for a local art activity for youngsters, and walked the entire length of the field across from my house - barely a single head has been missed. I found a few stray, dirty strands hidden in the corner by the pylon. Not even enough for a bread-roll, never mind feeding a family. Gleaning, another dying art.