Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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On Ornaments and Clothing, with Easter in Mind. Humans (Homo sapiens) are a naked ape with a flattened face. This is the result of neoteny, an adult form, maintaining juvenile characters. Humans have no natural pigments as with Mandrills. We know that Neanderthals utilized some forms of decoration, But humans have gone all out for bodily adornment-- Painted faces, use of feathers, jewelry, and regal robes. It is Easter today, and outstanding clothing, including garish hats, Are in great prominence during this one day of holiday time. As one commentator stated, "To catch the eye of god" (and man and woman). Human bodily decoration, be it jewels or cloth, are always prominent. The garment industry makes millions and causes great waste, As our decorations go out of fashion. Many garments just go to the dump. One example is the killing of egrets for their plumes-- Almost to the complete decimation of that species. (That is one reason why the Audubon Society was created, by women, In order to raise awareness and create laws to save birds.) We, as a 'decorating species', must now consider: Fewer changes of clothing, purchasing good used garments, Not always following mindless trends, and recycling clothing responsibility. Read Thoreau's 'On Walden' focusing on 'On Clothing'. I say no more. Frank Maurer 20 April 2025 0955 Hours.