In his classic poem, The Mending Wall, Robert Frost writes: ‘Good fences make good neighbours.’ The poem depicts two rural landowners meeting at a fence line that marks the boundary of their adjoining properties. Once a year, in spring, the two men meet to repair deficiencies caused over the winter due to frost and weathering. Each keeps to his own side, as together they walk the length of the fence replacing fallen stones. They walk the line until the fence is repaired; each having committed time and energy in the process. Simplistic in its logic, there is deep-rooted wisdom in Frost’s practical advice. Let’s consider the benefits of a good fence …
A fence reminds us of physical and geographic boundaries. A fence marks property lines. A fence defines the perimeter of both public and separate places. A fence provides privacy from peering passers-by who try to peek in on my property. In essence, a fence, in a sense, keeps what’s yours yours and what’s mine mine. The casual observer, who in looking upon any subdivision in St. Albert, will see an abundance of fences. The obvious inference here is: there must be countless ‘good neighbours.’ Indeed there are many, yet there are exceptions.
Consider the ‘good neighbour’ who decided to trim branches off the pine tree in my front yard. I am not sure who did this handiwork for me but it was greatly appreciated. I did not mind picking up the branches, even the one that was still partially attached to the tree. I hope your view is clearer now. Perhaps you will trim back other bushes and trees for me? Why not rake my leaves or mow my lawn while you are at it? It used to be that if a neighbour had an issue or a concern, they would at least have the common courtesy to discuss it or mention it in passing conversation. Good fences make good neighbours … perhaps I will add a fence to my front yard.
Consider the ‘good neighbours’ who drop plastic wrappers, empty coffee cups, and other refuse all over the neighbourhood. Sure, it could be the wind simply carrying debris asunder, but if we are to be good stewards of the environment then we need to be able to clean up after ourselves first. Good fences make good neighbours … I will build one that keeps the garbage off my lawn!
Consider the ‘good neighbour’ who absconded with a few bags of recyclable cans and bottles that I had loaded, under a cargo net, in the back of my truck which was parked on my driveway. I hope you enjoyed the $27.65. Better you than the cadet group I was saving them for. Did you really have to take the cargo net though? Really? Good fences make good neighbours … perhaps I need to build a wall! No, I recant that. I saw The Wall come down at Rexall last Tuesday and know that walls are never conducive for neighbourly chats. Remember West and East Germany? Only lasted a few decades, not much of a fence really. O Roger Waters … will they ever learn?
Sadly, these are recent experiences I have had. I know my true neighbours would not do these things because they are kind and considerate people. It is the ‘other neighbours’ I am concerned about. By that I mean those ‘special few’ who live in our city who feel that they can butt cigarettes on streets, throw garbage willy-nilly, and not have to clean up after their animals. They truly need a fence … no, a wall … no … what’s the word I am looking for? Oh yes … a cell!
We need to reclaim our yards, our streets, and our parks by ensuring we all walk the line, and do our part to be responsible citizens. Our fences sometimes give us false security, sometimes make us xenophobic and sometimes, just sometimes, accord us opportunity to say hello to a good neighbour who is passing by.
Tim Cusack is on the mend and would love help staining his fence …
