An Evolution of Metaphor in Times of Change
This makes me think of the metaphors that are emerging for regen•era and how we’ve been focused on Buckminster Fuller’s “trimtab”…
Bucky likened individuals or small actions to trimtabs — the tiny rudder-like plates on a ship whose movement can easily help steer the giant rudder, and hence the whole vessel. The metaphor celebrates the power of minute, intelligent interventions to spark large-scale change, emphasizing efficiency, leverage, and bold intention.
2. But I think “fireweed” may be a more fitting metaphor bringing life to regen•era…
Its about ecological renewal, not just mechanical leverage. While the trimtab emphasizes control and top-down influence, the fireweed symbolizes bottom-up, organic resurgence — nature’s ingenuity rising after fire’s devastation.
Fireweed flourishes collectively, attracting pollinators and regenerating ecosystems. It speaks to interconnectedness, mutual support, and the way life self-organizes and regenerates.
In an era marked by disruption — climate upheaval, social transformation and uncertainty — the fireweed metaphor honors emergence, adaptability, and renewal, rather than trying to control or redirect.
Fireweed reminds us that after chaos, systems can heal and thrive. This sense of cyclical regeneration resonates in the regenaisance, a world increasingly focused on restoration ecology and regenerative cycles benefitting all life.
These kinpiphanies were inspired by two projects synchronistically aligning:
Leah Lambs new guide book, The Little Book of Change and Design Science Studio’s BEAMcasts for Burning Man 2025 sound installation at the foot of the Man.
The Eleprocon Chronicles
Eleprocon mythOS 2birds BEAMing noosphere
